Here's a close look at the Rufous Hornbill (Buceros hydrocorax). A big bird endemic to the Philippines. Try to imagine a non-raptor, about 37 inches tall, and perched on a tree. Its quite exciting if you see this one in the wild. Especially when you witness a whole flock flying and making loud noises.
It was quite common in the country, but the usual story of habitat degradation made it more difficult to spot. One would have to go inside or at the edge of a forest to see one colorful rufous hornbill. Luckily, there are still some patches of habitats for this bird in areas located only about 1.5 hours from Manila.
Hi
ReplyDeleteI’m Thomas and I live on Negros or. very close to the most southern tip of the island.
We live with 4 juvenile Roufus hornbills; they sleep during the night on the trees around of our Nipahut. The youngest we got was in a bad shape full of lies and undernourished. He is getting better every day but his big feathers are not yet good enough for flying like the others.
According to their behavior we guess they are two couples. Maybe you know more about gender dismorpholigy and adult appearance also when they finely grow their red horn. Is there any report? About mating and nesting in semi captivity.
Maybe you can inform me.
Pleas contact me by email to thomasneuber@hotmail.com.
Salamat po!
Best wishes and regards
Thomas