Sri Racha, Chonburi – February 13th, 2026 – Khao Kheow Open Zoo joined forces with Bangchak Sriracha Public Company Limited (formerly Bangchak Sriracha) to host the annual “Hornbill Love Day” event under the theme “Declare Your Love to the World” at the Large Bird Aviary section of the zoo.
The ceremony, held on Friday, February 13th, 2026, was to raise public awareness about hornbill conservation. Hornbills are regarded as symbols of true and enduring love due to their lifelong monogamous pairing and serve as key indicators of a healthy forest ecosystem.
Mr. Narongwit Chotchoi, Director of Khao Kheow Open Zoo, presided over the opening of the event. Mr. Chainarong Pankong, Head of Conservation, Research, and Animal Health, delivered a report discussing the importance of Hornbill Love Day and the team efforts under the “Biodiversity Conservation Mission for Biological Diversity” project. This project directly supports research on the ecology and biology of the Great Hornbill (known as Nok Ka Hang in Thai) following their reintroduction into protected forest areas in northern Thailand, gathering vital data to restore wild populations sustainably in the future.
Representing Bangchak Sriracha, Dr. Nonglak Chawalkul, Director of Refinery Business Promotion, spoke about the company’s commitment to partnering with the zoo as a network supporter for conservation activities. She presented a financial donation of 100,000 baht to advance the “Biodiversity Conservation” project and its research and conservation goals. In addition, the company donated artificial nest cavities to enhance breeding opportunities for hornbills in their natural habitats.
The event also featured the handover of 30 raised-relief educational signs (featuring animal images), produced with support from the previous year’s budget (2025), to aid in educating youth and visitors about wildlife.
Attendees from both organizations explored various activities, including an exhibition introducing different hornbill species, their ecological roles, and contributions to biodiversity; the “Glass for Seedlings” campaign promoting waste management and green spaces; academic sessions on the ecology and biology of the Great Hornbill; the “Declare Your Love to the World” interactive learning activity focused on conservation; and creative D.I.Y. and recreational programs designed to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in young participants.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo and Bangchak Sriracha expressed hope that this event would significantly advance biodiversity conservation efforts and encourage greater societal awareness of the need to protect natural resources for future generations.
