Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill

Overview

The Sri Lanka grey hornbill (Ocyceros gingalensis) is a widespread and common endemic resident breeder in Sri Lanka. It belongs to the hornbill family, a group of tropical near-passerine birds found in the Old World.

Identification

• A large bird measuring approximately 45 cm in length with grey wings featuring black primary flight feathers, a grey back, and a brown crown.
• White underparts contrast with a long, blackish tail that has white sides.
• Possesses a long, curved bill without a casque; the bill is cream-coloured in males and black with a cream stripe in females.
• Immature birds are distinguished by dark grey upperparts, a cream bill, and a tail with a white tip.

Habitat

This gregarious species inhabits forest environments across Sri Lanka, where it is a common resident.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding mostly on figs but also consuming berries, other fruits, insects, and small lizards. Occasionally, the diet includes small rodents and reptiles.

Did you know?

During the breeding season, the female seals herself inside a tree hole with a cement made of mud, droppings, and fruit pulp, leaving only a narrow aperture for the male to pass food to her and the chicks.