Black Dwarf Hornbill
NameBlack Dwarf Hornbill
Common NameBlack Dwarf Hornbill
Scientific NameHorizocerus hartlaubi
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)37.5
Weight (g)135
Plumage DetailsGlossy black plumage on the upperparts and wings, with white underparts (belly and vent). The head and neck are shaggy, mottled with white or pale grey streaking. The bill is dark, often blackish with a paler tip or base. White markings are visible on the flight feathers, especially in flight.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive series of high-pitched, piping whistles, often rendered as 'pee-pee-pee-pee' or 'pi-pi-pi-pi-pi'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone east through countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, extending to Uganda and south to Angola.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a hornbill, Glossy black plumage with white belly, Shaggy white-streaked head and neck, Dark bill with pale tip/base, Piping whistle call
Description
A small, dark hornbill found in the tropical forests of West and Central Africa. It is characterized by its glossy black plumage, white underparts, and shaggy white-streaked head. This species forages primarily in the canopy for fruits and insects.
