The Hornbills

Hornbills are a family of birds located in tropical and sub-tropical continents such as Africa, Asia and Melanesia. Hornbills depending on their habitat often nest in trees and sometimes cliffs. The birds are often identified by their curved and colourful beaks; a prominent features among this family of birds. Other than being a distinctive feature of the bird itself; the large beak of the Hornbills also assists in fighting; cleaning; building their nest and for hunting.

In certain species of Hornbills, their beaks are larger and enable them to make unique sounds which are distinctive to their species. The feathers of the Hornbills usually range from black, grey, white and brown but certain species have bright patches of colors on their face and beak. Male Hornbills are usually larger and heavier then female Hornbills. In some species; the colour patches on their faces can also identify the sexes of the birds.

Hornbills also possess special eyesight that prevents them from being blocked by their giant bill and enables them to handle their food with precision. Hornbills also have long eyelashes that acts as sunshade and keeps sunlight out from their eyes. Hornbills often travel in pairs or in groups. Hornbills have a diet that consists of fruits, insects and small animals.

Due to the structure of their beaks; they are unable to swallow their food properly and can only toss the food to the back of their throats in order to swallow it. Nowadays; Hornbills face extinction due to habitat loss and poaching. It is important to conserve this species so that the future generation can also see this beautiful bird soaring through the skies.