Yellow-casqued Hornbill
NameYellow-casqued Hornbill
Common NameYellow-casqued Hornbill
Scientific NameCeratogymna elata
FamilyBucerotidae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)75
Weight (g)2350
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is largely black, contrasting with a distinctive white or creamy-white tip on the tail feathers. Males are distinguished by a large, prominent yellow casque on the upper mandible, while females have a smaller, reddish-brown casque. Both sexes feature bare blue skin around the eyes and throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, resonant 'honk' or 'caw' calls, often delivered in a series, which can carry far through the forest.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, with a range extending from Sierra Leone east to Ghana, and then discontinuously through Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Predominantly black plumage, White-tipped tail, Prominent casque (yellow in males, reddish-brown in females), Bare blue facial skin
Description
The Yellow-casqued Hornbill is a large, predominantly black hornbill found in the tropical forests of West and Central Africa. It is characterized by its massive bill and prominent casque, which differs in color between sexes. These birds are often observed foraging in the forest canopy for fruits and other food items.
