Helmeted Hornbill
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NameHelmeted Hornbill
Common NameHelmeted Hornbill
Scientific NameRhinoplax vigil
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)170
Length (cm)115
Weight (g)2850
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is mostly dark brown to black, with a white belly and a striking white tail that features a broad black band near the tip. The head and neck are bare and wrinkled, bright red in males and pale blue in females. The bill and casque are yellow, with the front and sides of the casque often appearing reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its unique and far-carrying vocalizations, which begin as a series of resonant, single 'tok' notes that gradually accelerate into a maniacal, cackling 'laugh' or 'whooping' call.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, lowland forest, hill forest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeFound in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and parts of Thailand and Myanmar.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Solid, heavy casque (not hollow), Bare, wrinkled red (male) or blue (female) neck and head, Long central tail feathers, White tail with broad black subterminal band, Distinctive loud 'laughing' call
Description
The Helmeted Hornbill is a very large, distinctive forest bird known for its prominent, solid casque that extends from the base of its bill to the crown. Unlike other hornbills, its casque is solid keratin and makes up a significant portion of its weight. These birds are primarily frugivores, spending much of their time in the canopy of tropical rainforests.
