Northern Red-billed Hornbill
NameNorthern Red-billed Hornbill
Common NameNorthern Red-billed Hornbill
Scientific NameTockus erythrorhynchus
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)38.5
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsThe Northern Red-billed Hornbill has white underparts, head, and neck, contrasting with a black back and wings heavily marked with white spots and streaks. Its long tail is black with white outer feathers, and the most distinctive feature is its bright red, decurved bill with a small casque, often accompanied by pinkish facial skin around the eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of accelerating, high-pitched 'tok-tok-tok' calls, often described as a clucking or cackling sound that increases in tempo.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, its range extends from Senegal in the west, eastward to Ethiopia, and south into northern Tanzania.
Identifying FeaturesBright red decurved bill, Black and white spotted/streaked plumage on back and wings, White underparts, Pinkish facial skin around eye
Description
This medium-sized hornbill is characterized by its striking black and white plumage and a prominent, bright red, decurved bill. It is typically found foraging on the ground in dry woodlands and savannas, primarily feeding on insects and seeds.
