Thai Parks Probe Hornbill Smuggling to India

A Thai wildlife trafficking probe has been launched after a rare hornbill, known locally as nok chon hin, was intercepted in India and returned to Thailand on 24 June 2026. The bird was seized on 19 June 2026 at Cochin International Airport, India, after being found hidden in luggage belonging to an Indian passenger who had travelled from Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok.

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The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation confirmed receipt of the live animal, which is classified as a protected species under Thai law and listed under CITES Appendix I. Officials said the bird is now under veterinary care for health checks, DNA sampling, and rehabilitation before any possible release back into the wild.

According to Department of National Parks director-general Arthapol Charoenchansa, the bird is a female adult and was found in a weakened but stable condition. Veterinarians reported that it was eating and appeared relatively calm, suggesting it may have been in captivity for some time before seizure.

Authorities believe the smuggling operation may involve a wider trafficking network, including individuals linked to airport logistics. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and baggage handling procedures at Don Mueang Airport after suspicions arose that a large crate containing the bird bypassed normal tagging and screening channels.

Officials from the CITES Wildlife and Plant Conservation Division, led by Suddee Phanphakdee, said DNA testing will be conducted as part of the investigation. The bird will be placed in a wildlife breeding and rehabilitation facility once initial recovery is complete.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

Experts warned that hornbill poaching in southern Thailand remains an ongoing problem. Researcher Prida Thiensongrassamee noted that chicks are often taken directly from nesting cavities, sometimes with the mother present, during a vulnerable incubation period of up to five months.

He added that wild hornbills are typically sold for 20,000 to 30,000 baht locally, but prices can rise to hundreds of thousands of baht once smuggled abroad, particularly into markets driven by wealthy collectors in India.

Khaosod reported that officials said they will continue tracing those responsible for the capture, transport, and export of the protected bird, with penalties under Thai law including imprisonment of 3 to 15 years and fines of 300,000 to 1.5 million baht for poaching or illegal export.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 25 June 2026

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