Genetic structure and metapopulation dynamics of the Great and Oriental Pied Hornbill in Thailand

Translocation and maintenance of self-sustaining reintroduced populations within a species’ former range is one of the strategies for wildlife conservation and biodiversity restoration. Genetic monitoring has increasingly been applied to quantify impacts of captive management and human disturbance on genetic structure, diversity and trajectory of both translocated and wild populations. However, systematic genetic monitoring of reintroduced populations has rarely been integrated to optimize wildlife recovery in Thailand. The goal of this project is to design and implement genetic management of captive and wild Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) and Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris) with the goal of improving effectiveness of hornbill reintroduction and biodiversity conservation. Reliable information on genetic diversity and connectivity will serve as a model for guiding conservation planning and reintroduction of other threatened species in Southeast Asia.