The final Annual nation-wide Black-necked Crane (BNC) count for 2011-2012 was conducted at 0600 am on the 16th of January 2012. The count was simultaneously counted in all the major roosting sites of Bhutan with the support of Department of Forest and Park Services. Phobjikha recorded the highest count about 335 BNCs (including 51 Juveniles) followed by Bumdeling (102) and Bumthang and Khotokha (5 each). Paro, Lhuntse and Gelephu received 12 BNCs altogether.
Phobjikha, Bhutan – World Wetlands Day was observed on 2 February 2012 in Phobjikha-the largest wetland in Bhutan. The day marks the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971 and ever since then, the day is observed to undertake activities focussed on increasing awareness on the benefits of wetlands, both locally and globally. WWF organised the event in collaboration with the Watershed Management Division, Department of Forest & Park Services, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN).
2011 was a banner year for research on the critically endangered White-bellied heron (Ardea insignis). The year saw two important studies on the White-bellied heron (WBH): RSPN’s WBH capitive breeding program and Mr. Jigme Dorji’s BSc. research on the WBH’s habitat, and people’s perception towards its protection. At the international level, the White-bellied heron was enlisted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the Rarest Heron.