Myanmar is considered a biological marvel, with habitats including tropical reefs, dry and evergreen lowland forests, and the snow-capped mountains and pine-rhododendron forest of the Himalayan foothills. Yet Myanmar’s biological diversity is little known. PRCF first began working in Myanmar in 2003, engaging in forest fire prevention. Since then, we have expanded to also link biodiversity and cultural arts conservation and protect endangered wildlife.
Forest fire prevention
PRCF work started in Myanmar by providing support to conservation in the Southern Chin Hills. This location was susceptible to accidental forest fires started by local communities in and near the conservation area, further endangering already threatened wildlife. PRCF built fire shelters to prevent accidental forest fires at Natmataung National Park, which has increased protection of the endangered wildlife.
Biodiversity and cultural arts conservation
We also conduct field research on the possible links between biodiversity and cultural arts conservation at the remote Southern Chin Hills site of Kyauk Pan Taung.
Wildlife conservation
Our third initiative is to assess the conservation status of the Hoolock Gibbon throughout the country. Starting in 2008, this three-year comprehensive review led to the identification of Hoolock Gibbon populations and local support for conservation to provide meaningful opportunities for site-based conservation. The Conservation Status of Hoolock Gibbons in Myanmar (T. Zeissmann et al) was published in 2013 as a result of this work.