Thesis and Dissertation Announcements

Dissertation Proposal Defense

A Comprehensive Study of Breeding Biology and Behavior of the Critically Endangered White-Bellied Heron Ardea insignis to Support Conservation and Population Reinforcement

Major Advisor: Dr. M. Clay Green

Committee Members:

• Dr. Joseph A. Veech
• Dr. Leila Siciliano-Martina
• Dr. Michelle L. Stantial
• Dr. Jonathan Cohen

Zoom Link: https://txstate.zoom.us/j/81178335937pwd=8mTeKbGvsRCzejHChLkMbKTDfbnYYP.1 
Meeting ID: 811 7833 5937
Passcode: 183738

Abstract: The White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) is a critically endangered species that poses a significant global conservation concern. Despite ongoing conservation efforts throughout its range, the population continues to decline. Bhutan has made substantial investments in conservation, including the establishment of a captive breeding center, to help protect this species. Previous research indicates a staggering 60% reduction in suitable habitat across its range, which now spans less than 165,000 square kilometers. This continuous population decline is alarming and necessitates more in-depth research. Therefore, I plan to conduct a comprehensive assessment and mapping of the major threats facing the White-bellied Heron and its habitats in Bhutan. By mapping and quantifying these threats, I aim to understand their impact on both population dynamics and the overall survival of the species. Additionally, the breeding population is extremely limited, with only three known active nests in Bhutan representing the only known successful breeding pair in the world. The second phase of my research will focus on the breeding biology and behavior of the species, including how ecological and environmental factors influence breeding behavior and success rates. I plan to employ a mixed-methods approach that includes field observation, remote camera surveillance, and a review of historical breeding data. This will allow me to address knowledge gaps regarding the spatial distribution and severity of threats, and how the herons are responding to these impacts. The findings from my research are expected to not only enhance our understanding of the species but also contribute to refining captive breeding procedures, improving chick rearing in captivity, and informing conservation strategies.

Bio: Indra Acharja is from Bhutan, and his research interests include avian ecology, biology, and freshwater ecosystems. Before joining Texas State, Indra worked at the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (www.rspnbhutan.org), a conservation NGO in Bhutan leading the WBH conservation, captive breeding, and research. Indra holds a Master of Forest Science (2019) from the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Yale University, USA, an M. Sc. Forestry (2014) from Forest Research Institute (FRI) University, India, and a bachelor’s degree in Life Science (2012) from Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan. Indra is a member of the WBH IUCN-SSC Working Group and also a National Geographic Explorer and has received several grants and awards, including National Geographic Explorer Grants and the Andrew Sabin International Environmental Fellowship.