West African Pied Hornbill
NameWest African Pied Hornbill
Common NameWest African Pied Hornbill
Scientific NameLophoceros semifasciatus
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)52.5
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly glossy black, with white tips on the outer tail feathers. The large, distinctive bill is pale yellow to creamy white, featuring a black base and tip, and a prominent casque on the upper mandible.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of loud, cackling calls, often described as 'kek-kek-kek', and sometimes whistling notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone eastward through Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria, extending into western Cameroon.
Identifying FeaturesLarge pale yellow bill with black base and tip, Prominent casque on bill, Glossy black body plumage, White outer tail feathers
Description
This medium-sized hornbill is characterized by its glossy black plumage and a striking pale yellow bill with a prominent casque. It is an arboreal species, typically found foraging for fruits and insects in the canopy of West African forests.
