Malabar Pied Hornbill

News– To protect the rare Malabar Pied Hornbill and encourage natural forest growth, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department has begun setting up six “hornbill restaurants” in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.

About Malabar Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus)

• It is a member of the hornbill family (Bucerotidae) and is also referred to as the Lesser Pied Hornbill.
• Appearance – It is a medium-sized forest bird distinguished by its bold black-and-white coloration and a large, curved bill topped with a well-developed casque.
• Habitat – This species inhabits evergreen and moist deciduous forests. It is frequently observed near human habitations, particularly where fruit-bearing trees are present.
• Geographical distribution – It is found in the Western Ghats and north-eastern Himalayan foothill regions of India and Nepal, the Satpura Hills, as well as in Sri Lanka. It is confined to the Indian subcontinent.
• Feeding behaviour :
  • Primarily frugivorous and feeds largely on fruits.
  • During the breeding season, it may shift to a more omnivorous diet.
  • Natural predators include leopards, snakes, and the Indian Shaheen Falcon, which has recently seen an increase in population at the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.
• Ecological Importance – The species serves as an important indicator of forest ecosystem health and stability, reflecting the condition of its habitat.
• Conservation status :
  • IUCN Red List: Near Threatened.
  • Estimated global population ranges between 3,000 and 32,000 mature individuals