Is the white-bellied heron rare?
Yes the white-bellied heron is rare and critically endangered. Their population esitmates are at 70 to 400 individuals. They are found in Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh, sometimes seen in Assam. They are also found in central Bhutan, northeast Bangladesh, and Hukuang valley in Myanmar.
Why is the white-bellied heron critically endangered?
The rapid decline in the numbers of the white-bellied heron is believed to be taking place even in remote parts of its range. Widespread habitat loss and degradation, hydroelectronic projects, poaching, forest fires that destroy nests and harvesting of wetland resources are some threats to their population.
What are some conservation initiatives for the white-bellied heron?
White-bellied herons are offered the highest protection under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act. It is also protected in Bhutan and Myanmar. The IUCN Species Survival Commission has a White-bellied Heron Working Group to support stakeholders trying to save the heron.
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