Here's my article about the Gurney's pitta which appeared in The Bangkok Post on Sunday's Spectrum section on the 30th of October 2016. My first article actually in print!
After rediscovery of this pretty little songbird in the South of Thailand in 1986, it took just four decades to render it functionally extinct. This was caused by expanding rubber and palm oil plantations, and a lack of will by authorities to adequately protect Gurney's pitta habitats. The recent discovery of a few individuals raises hopes for a new Thai breeding programme.
There are also further hopes for protecting the bird across the border in Myanmar where a population of Gurney's Pitta were rediscovered in 2003. These populations are also threatened by relentless expansion of palm oil plantations, but if the government approves the opening of the Lenya National Park in Southern Myanmar, the Gurney's pitta may survive for future generations to enjoy.
Please follow the link above to find out more.
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| A male and female Gurney's Pitta. Photo: Kanit Khanikul. |
