Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)
Status: Near Threatened

Native to Asia's lowland forests, the Great Hornbill has a long, colorful beak and broad wingspan. Demand from the exotic pet and ornament trades make it a target of poachers. Deforestation is also a serious threats to Hornbill habitat. If left to fly free, a single hornbill can plant 14,600 trees in its lifetime.

The many species of hornbills thrive in forests with large trees to nest in. Their unique beaks are also highly sought after by poachers.

Nesting pairs

A female hornbill will usually nest in tree hollows, blocking up the entrance with bark, dirt and droppings, leaving only a small opening for her mate to deliver food. If a male is captured or killed during the nesting period, the female won’t abandon her young, even if it means starving to death.

Protecting hornbill families from poachers and ensuring intact and healthy forest for them to forage and nest in is crucial to the survival of this colorful species. Trade in great hornbill is completely banned under the Thai and international law.

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