Gurney’s Pitta Update – Hurry if you want to see one.

I have to agree with other posters, In Asia you generally have to give wildlife economic value if they are to have a chance at survival.

Unfortunately this is particularly the case in lowland rainforest as being on flatter ground it is more likely to be cleared for palm oil plantations or similar things.

Villagers still continue to forage and hunt in National Parks throughout Thailand, I’m sure the more difficult terrain also helps protects many of these areas.

I recall reading 10 years ago about the difficulties in Khao Nor Chuchi with illegal clearing, without economic incentives that clearing will only continue.

regards,

Chris Ross

Hello Richard,

That is of course concerning about yet another species in trouble. In the context of my response I take your message entirely on face value as being true, as I have no information to the contrary. However I am quite concerned that you should write to us “so if you want to see one you better hurry” along with “and disturbance in the park are affecting the pitta in a bad way.” It seems not to be a wise suggestion. I don’t see that you demonstrate how seeing the bird (presumably without taking photos or using call recordings) benefits the bird. Sorry but it seems logical to me that it would be preferable to say: “so if you want to see one you should change your mind and go do something else”, if I am reading your message correctly that disturbance is a big problem for the bird. My point is: would my life be any better to see this particular bird species, in contrast to the many thousands of other (common) species I haven’t? No. So if it causes the bird problems (and risks my security) I have no wish to do so, for self indulgence.

Philip

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