Malabar Pied Hornbill

The Malabar pied hornbill, known scientifically as Anthracoceros coronatus and colloquially as the lesser pied hornbill, is a striking bird with a predominantly black plumage. It measures approximately 65 cm in length and is notable for its large yellow bill topped with a sizeable casque, which is mostly black. The bird's underparts are white, including a distinct throat patch and the sides of its tail. The trailing edges of its wings also bear a white coloration. Males can be distinguished by their lack of white orbital skin, a feature present in females. Juvenile hornbills are recognizable by the absence of a casque and weigh around 1 kg.

Identification Tips

When observing the Malabar pied hornbill, look for its contrasting black and white plumage and the impressive casque on its bill. The male's lack of white around the eyes and the bird's size are key identification markers. It may be confused with the oriental pied hornbill, but careful observation should allow for correct identification.

Habitat

This hornbill favors evergreen and moist deciduous forests, often establishing itself near human settlements. It thrives in the lush greenery where it can find ample food and nesting sites.

Distribution

The Malabar pied hornbill is a common resident breeder in India and Sri Lanka. Its presence is noted across three main regions within the Indian subcontinent: Central and Eastern India, along the Western Ghats, and in Sri Lanka.

Behaviour

The Malabar pied hornbill exhibits fascinating breeding behavior. The female lays two to three white eggs in a tree hole, which is then sealed with a mixture of mud, droppings, and fruit pulp, leaving only a narrow aperture. Through this opening, the male provides food to the female and the chicks. Once the chicks grow, the female breaks out to assist in feeding them.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Malabar pied hornbill have not been detailed in the provided content.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the female hornbill becomes a dedicated mother, incubating her eggs in the sealed tree hole and relying on the male for sustenance. This unique nesting strategy ensures the safety of the offspring until they are ready to face the world outside.

Similar Species

The oriental pied hornbill is similar in appearance but can be differentiated by careful observation of the birds' distinct physical characteristics.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Malabar pied hornbill's diet consists of fruits, small mammals, birds, small reptiles, and insects. Figs are a staple, making up a significant portion of their diet, especially outside the breeding season. They also consume other fruits, including those of the Strychnos nux-vomica, which are toxic to many vertebrates.

Conservation status

The Malabar pied hornbill is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Its survival is dependent on the conservation of its forest habitat and the maintenance of biodiversity within its range.