Congo Pied Hornbill
NameCongo Pied Hornbill
Common NameCongo Pied Hornbill
Scientific NameBycanistes cylindricus
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1250
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly glossy black on the head, neck, back, and upper breast. The lower belly, vent, and undertail coverts are white, and the outer tail feathers have white tips. The large, curved bill and casque are pale yellow to cream, often with a dark base or markings.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of loud, raucous cackles and grunts, often described as 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kraa-kraa-kraa'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone and Liberia east through Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria, extending into parts of Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea.
Identifying FeaturesLarge pale yellow/cream bill with prominent casque, Glossy black body plumage, White lower belly/vent, White tips on outer tail feathers
Description
This large hornbill is characterized by its glossy black plumage and a striking pale yellow to cream bill with a prominent casque. It is typically found foraging for fruit in the canopy of tropical rainforests.
