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Helmeted Hornbill to be listed as conserved species to save it from hunters

13 Sept 14:22 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation intends to list the Helmeted Hornbill as a conserved species to combat illegal hunting, driven by high demand for its unique solid casque and chicks, particularly in China.
Hunters primarily target mother birds for their casques and capture chicks during the nesting season (December-May), fueling an escalating illegal trade in carved jewelry and ornaments.
Despite being a CITES Category 1 species, the Helmeted Hornbill faces unprecedented pressure from exploding demand, with TRAFFIC identifying over 236 online posts offering hornbill products recently.
Conservation efforts include collaborative research, deploying dedicated 'smart patrol' units at nesting sites, and drafting a national management plan to protect the species from extinction.

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.