indian grey hornbill

The Indian grey hornbill (Ocyceros birostris) is a fascinating and common avian species native to the Indian subcontinent. Known for its distinct appearance and unique nesting rituals, this medium-sized bird is one of the few hornbill species that has successfully adapted to urban environments, making it a familiar sight in many Indian cities and rural landscapes.

Measuring approximately 50 to 61 cm in length, the Indian grey hornbill features greyish-brown upper parts and a dull white belly. Its most striking feature is the casque—a protrusion on top of its dark beak. Males typically possess a larger casque and dark skin around the eyes, while females have a more yellowish bill and occasionally pale reddish skin near the eyes. Their flight feathers are dark brown with white tips, and they possess a distinct red iris with eyelashes.

These birds are moderately forest-dependent and are typically found at altitudes ranging from 0 to 100 meters. Their habitat is diverse, spanning various ecosystems including:

• Dry savanna and tropical/subtropical forests.
• Arable lands and rural gardens.
• Urban avenues and city parks with large, mature trees.

The Indian grey hornbill is omnivorous and plays a vital role in seed dispersal. Its diet primarily consists of:

• Fruits (with a particular fondness for figs).
• Insects and other small invertebrates.
• Small lizards and occasionally rodents.

The nesting season occurs between April and June. They utilize tree hollows, which the female enters and then seals using a mixture of mud pellets provided by the male and her own excreta. A small vertical slit is left open, through which the male provides food. She remains inside to incubate one to five eggs and undergoes a moult, emerging only when the chicks are mature and the feathers have regrown.

Often seen in pairs or small groups, these birds are primarily arboreal. Their flight is characterized by heavy flapping interspersed with glides. They produce a distinct squealing call that resembles the sound of a black kite. They are highly social and can often be seen hopping between branches in search of food.

The Indian grey hornbill is currently not considered globally threatened. Its remarkable ability to adapt to human-modified landscapes, such as urban parks and gardens, has helped maintain a stable population across its range on the Indian subcontinent.

1. The female seals herself inside a tree cavity for several weeks during the nesting period for protection.
2. They are among the few hornbill species that thrive in bustling metropolitan areas like Delhi and Mumbai.
3. The regrowth of the female's feathers inside the nest is perfectly timed with the maturity of her chicks.
4. The 'casque' on their beak is shorter and more pointed compared to other hornbill species.

To spot an Indian grey hornbill, look for large, old trees in city parks or roadside avenues. Listen for their high-pitched, kite-like squealing calls. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Bringing a pair of binoculars will help you distinguish the subtle differences between the male's larger casque and the female's yellowish bill markings.

The Indian grey hornbill is a resilient and iconic bird of the Indian landscape. Its unique nesting biology and successful adaptation to urban life make it a subject of great interest for bird enthusiasts and researchers alike. Protecting mature trees in both forests and cities remains crucial for the continued survival of this remarkable species.