Hornbill

The hornbills (Bucerotidae) are a family of bird found in tropical and subtropical Africa, Asia and Melanesia. They have a long, down-curved bill which is often brightly colored and sometimes has a box-like thing on the upper mandible. Many states of India like Kerala are fond of the hornbills. It is also the state bird of Kerala.

Hornbill
Malabar grey hornbill.jpg
Malabar grey hornbill
Ocyceros griseus
Scientific classification e
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Order: Bucerotiformes
Family: Bucerotidae
Rafinesque, 1815
The brightest colours on most hornbills, like this pair of knobbed hornbills, are found on the beaks and bare skin of the face and throat

The female hornbill lays her eggs in a hole in a tree. Then, helped by her mate, she seals herself in, covering the entrance with droppings and mud. Only a small slit is left, through which the male gives her food. This keeps the nest safe from snakes until the chicks are grown enough to leave the nest, and learn how to fly.[1]

Hornbill Media

Related pages

References

  1. Ganeri, Anita (2000). Jungle animals: over 100 questions and answers to things you want to know. Dubai, U.A.E. ISBN 0-75254-909-X.