Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) plans to propose removing the red-whiskered bulbul from Thailand's protected wildlife list. This effort aims to facilitate commercial breeding, as the bird is popular for its vocals and often participates in singing competitions. DNP Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa announced that a report for the Wildlife Protection and Conservation Committee will be submitted next month.

 

The intention to delist the perching bird, known in Thai as Nok Krong Hua Jook, follows detailed findings from three sub-committees that studied the implications. Presently, the bulbul's market value is driven by its demand in cultural competitions. Attapol expects the committee to confirm the decision, with the cabinet's endorsement being the final requirement.

 

Surveys have identified 44,800 red-whiskered bulbuls in 559 out of 2,584 grid locations, with a majority residing in forest areas. This population indicates stability, significantly exceeding the 10,000 individual threshold for the endangered status per the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The DNP is focused on ensuring no wild captures and preventing crossbreeding between wild and captive populations.

 

The proposal has garnered support, as some view the bird as a potential economic resource for southern Thailand, potentially reducing regional unrest. Past mixed opinions on the removal led to the formation of study panels to thoroughly assess the impact.

 

Looking forward, if approved by the Wildlife Protection and Conservation Committee, the resolution to remove the bulbul from the protected list will proceed to the cabinet for final approval. The decision will aim to balance conservation with economic opportunities, emphasizing self-regulation among bird breeders, reported Bangkok Post.

 

Key Takeaways

• A decision on removing the bulbul from protection is pending.
• The bird's population is currently stable and above endangered levels.
• Approval could open economic avenues while requiring regulated breeding.

 

Related Stories

Controversy as Red-Whiskered Bulbul Faces Delisting in Thailand

Thailand Weighs Benefits of De-listing Red-Whiskered Bulbul

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-11-27

 

 

 

We have always had them around the house until recently. We would feed the bananas and they would let us know if we had not put any out for them.

About 4 months ago they retreated to the bushland near the house. We still hear them but they do not come close anymore. Their retreat coincided when a large flock of starlings and some coral beaked ground cuckoos turned up. Would be interesting to know the reason.

Best to leave the bulbul protected by being on the endangered list. If they are removed from the list the idea that breeders will self-regulate is laughable.

I'm very lucky. I have them in the garden. I find them very sociable and they certainly have a most beautiful song.

 

62years of living in rural England spoilt me. Remember Henley's wonderful words:

 

'The nightingale has a lyre of gold,

The lark's is a clarion call,

And the blackbird plays but a boxwood flute,

But I love him best of all.'

 

My sentiment exactly. (Although what joy to hear a robin and a thrush and yet more)

Birds, the epitome of freedom.

 

Locked in gages by idiots.

22 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

the bird is popular for its vocals and often participates in singing competitions.