Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
NameAbyssinian Ground Hornbill
Common NameAbyssinian Ground Hornbill
Scientific NameBucorvus abyssinicus
FamilyBucorvidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)3100
Plumage DetailsAdults have entirely black plumage with white primary feathers visible in flight. Males feature a vibrant blue patch around the eye and a large, inflatable red throat pouch, while females have an all-blue throat pouch. Both sexes possess a large, dark bill topped with a prominent casque.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its deep, booming calls, often described as a series of resonant 'uh-uh-uh-uh' notes, typically given in a duet by a pair. These calls can carry over long distances.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound across a wide belt of sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through the Sahel region to Ethiopia, and south to parts of Uganda and Kenya.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Black plumage, Large bill with prominent casque, Vibrant blue and red facial skin (males), Vibrant blue facial skin (females), Terrestrial foraging behavior
Description
The Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is a large, terrestrial bird characterized by its predominantly black plumage and striking facial coloration. It spends most of its time foraging on the ground in open habitats, searching for a variety of prey.
