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Great hornbill Pair, great Indian hornbill Pair

great Indian hornbill Pair, Buceros bicornis Pair

Code: Hornbills Life
Skills: World of Hornbills
Client:Save Tree Save Life Society

Project Description

Great Indian hornbills (Buceros bicornis) nest in large tree cavities between January and April, with the female laying one or two eggs. Once the female enters the nest, she seals the opening with her feces, marking the beginning of nesting season. The male then sits outside the tree and works with the female to seal her and her eggs inside. For 90 days or more, the female seals herself into the nest and relies on the male to return daily to feed her and the chicks. This is a very rare siting for a Great Indian hornbills pair sitting nest.

Description:
- The great hornbill is a large bird, measuring 95–130 cm (37–51 in) in length, with a wingspan of 152 cm (60 in) and a weight of 2 to 4 kg (4.4 to 8.8 lb).
- It has a distinctive appearance with a large, curved bill, a casque (a helmet-like structure) on its head, and striking black and white plumage.
- Males have red eyes, while females have bluish-white eyes.
- The great hornbill is predominantly frugivorous, feeding on fruits, but it also preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Habitat and Distribution:
- Great hornbills are found in dense forests, especially in hilly and mountainous regions.
- They inhabit areas across the Indian subcontinent, including Kerala, Assam, and the Western Ghats.
- The species is also present in Southeast Asia, including Sumatra.
Breeding and Nesting:
- During the breeding season, great hornbills build their nests in tree cavities.
- The female remains in the nest during incubation, and after hatching, she takes up the full-time job of feeding the chick.
- The nesting sites are often high above the ground, providing protection from predators.
Conservation Status:
- The great hornbill is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2018.
- Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.
Where to Spot Great Indian Hornbills:
- Kerala and Assam are excellent places to observe these majestic birds.
- In Kerala, locations like Nelliampathy and Thekkady are recommended.
- In Assam, Kaziranga National Park is a good spot for hornbill sightings.
- Keep an eye out for their impressive nests high up in trees