Overview
A deep, resonant boom rolling across the grasslands at sunrise may reveal a family of southern ground-hornbills beginning its day. Tall, black-feathered and unmistakably imposing, this is the largest hornbill and one of Tanzania’s most distinctive terrestrial birds.
Unlike most hornbills, it spends much of its day walking through open savannah and woodland. Its powerful bill is used to seize insects, reptiles, frogs and small mammals found among the grass, beneath vegetation or inside shallow holes.
Behaviour & How to Identify
Look for an enormous black bird with long legs, a heavy curved bill and vivid bare skin across the face and throat. White primary feathers become especially noticeable when the bird spreads its wings or takes flight.
Adult males have predominantly red facial and throat skin. Females can be recognised by a patch of blue or violet-blue skin on the throat, while juveniles have duller grey-brown facial colouring.
Their booming territorial calls are produced most often around dawn and may be answered by neighbouring groups. Although usually seen on the ground, southern ground-hornbills fly strongly and roost in trees. They nest in large natural cavities in mature trees.
Interesting facts
Their calls can travel across several kilometres. Family groups use deep, booming notes to advertise and defend their large territories.
They raise their young as a family. Helpers assist the breeding pair by bringing food and defending the territory.
nly one chick usually survives. Although two eggs may be laid, the second-hatched chick normally dies early, contributing to the species’ exceptionally slow reproductive rate.