One of the prime targets on our recent visit to Thailand was to see this iconic species. Up to five birds were reportedly still in the area, but other reports suggested that there might be only up to three. During our three visits to this area, I was never convinced there was more than one bird. However it is a large area and more individuals could certainly have been present.
This is one of the most endangered species in the world with a current estimated world population at fewer than 200 pairs, possibly as few as 120 pairs. This tiny population continues to decrease at a rapid rate. Birdlife International estimates the current decline at an unsustainable 26% per year. If current trends are not reversed, this species is certain become extinct in the not too distant future. An attempt at a captive breeding program has been initiated to attempt to save the species but this is a highly migratory bird in which migratory behavior is apparently innate rather than leaned. It remains to be seen whether captive breeding can successfully augment a dwindling migratory wild population.
The purpose of the spoon on the tip of the bill has been a matter of conjecture, but I think David Sibley's suggestion that it acts as a "shovel" to push debris from under the water makes the most sense. Our observations agreed with his. The bird fed only in the water with its bill submerged using a pushing action without any obvious side-to-side sweeping.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LX5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA |hand-held (no adapter).