RAIPUR: After making headlines for its tiger and wild buffalo conservation efforts, Chhattisgarh’s Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR) is preparing to offer visitors a new wildlife attraction — the state’s first dedicated Hornbill Safari, centred around the growing population of the charismatic Malabar Pied Hornbill, often referred to by conservationists as the “flying ambassador of the forest.“The initiative, slated to begin shortly and creating fresh livelihood opportunities for residents of remote tribal villages located within the reserve landscape.Spread across the forests of Gariyaband and Dhamtari districts, Udanti-Sitanadi has witnessed a steady increase in hornbill sightings in recent years. Unlike conventional wildlife safaris focused on large mammals, the Hornbill Safari will offer visitors a chance to observe the striking black-and-white birds in their natural habitat, along with several other avian species that inhabit the reserve’s mixed forests.According to information released by the state govt, the safari circuit will pass through Odh, Amlor and Amamora — villages inhabited by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Local youth from these villages are being trained as birding guides and nature interpreters, said a state govt statement. Beyond hornbills, visitors may also encounter species such as the Indian Pitta, Brown Fish Owl, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, woodpeckers, babblers and seasonal migratory birds. The reserve is also known for sightings of the Indian Giant Squirrel and the elusive Indian Giant Flying Squirrel.Wildlife experts note that hornbills are considered important indicators of forest health because they depend on mature tree cover and play a key role in seed dispersal.Located about 130 km from Raipur — roughly a two-and-a-half-hour drive — the reserve has initially earmarked two safari vehicles for the programme, with scope for expansion depending on visitor response.