Saving the Vietnam Pheasant
November 2024 Conservation Snapshot
Vietnam Pheasant Conservation
- EAZA Conservation Categories: Habitats, Conservation Education, Capacity building, Reintroduction
- Habitats: Forest
- Country: Vietnam
The Critically Endangered Vietnam pheasant (Lophura edwardsi), endemic to central Vietnam, has not been observed in the wild since 2000 and may be extinct in its natural habitat.
Since 2018, Zoo and Tierpark Berlin in partnership with Antwerp Zoo, Chester Zoo, Zoological Society of London, Paignton Zoo, Mandai Nature, Prague Zoo and conservation organizations BirdLife and the World Pheasant Association, have been supporting the Vietnamese NGO Viet Nature in an ambitious effort to bring back the bird to its native forests.
The joint conservation efforts focus on establishing an ex situ population within the species' historical range, alongside preparatory activities like patrolling and removing snares in potential release sites to ensure a safe environment for reintroduction.
A dedicated breeding centre has been built for the species in the Le Thuy district, Quang Binh province with the first 8 breeding aviaries and 16 holding aviaries being prepared for welcoming birds from the EEP in 2025.
The centre aims to eventually accommodate at least 50 breeding pairs with additional aviaries planned. The adjoining education centre will engage surrounding communities in the long-term conservation mission.
The project has a clear aim: by the time the next Year of the Rooster comes around in 2029, Vietnam should once again be home to Vietnam pheasants.
* EAZA Members that have supported the recovery programme financially via Viet Nature or in another way over the last 12 years are: Antwerp Zoo, Chester Zoo, Karlsruhe Zoo, Mandai Nature, Paignton Zoo, Prague Zoo, Wingham Wildlife Park, World Pheasant Association, Zoo and Tierpark Berlin, Zoological Society of London
Pictures © Viet Nature Conservation Centre; pheasant by Ariel Jacken; breeding aviaries by Rik Dams; construction of staff building by Jonathan C. Eeames
Check out the animation movie created by Viet Nature and the RMIT University to raise awareness of these birds in Vietnam.
Did you know you can help too?
The Vietnam pheasant is one of the flagship species of the current EAZA conservation campaign Vietnamazing.
By joining the campaign, raising awareness of the species and/or donating money, you can make a difference. Join the efforts to save Vietnam species, click below.