Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill

Identification

The black-and-white-casqued hornbill, also known as the grey-cheeked hornbill, is a moderately large bird measuring 60 to 70 cm in length with a wingspan of 70 to 96 cm. Males typically weigh between 1 kg and 1.5 kg, while females are slightly smaller at 1 kg to 1.25 kg. This species is immediately recognizable by its striking black plumage on the upper body and wings contrasting sharply with white plumage on the lower body and wings, with black feathers scattered among the white tail feathers, particularly at the top and base.

The most distinctive feature is the oversized bill with a prominent casque (helmet-like protuberance) on top, which is notably larger and more pronounced in males. Males display a yellow-brownish bill, while females have a black bill and a significantly smaller casque. The purpose of the casque in males remains unknown, though it is thought to play a role in sexual characterization. A remarkable trait for birds is the black-and-white-casqued hornbill's very mobile eyes, which can move independently in their sockets—an uncommon ability among avian species. This hornbill can also communicate its emotional state through the feathers at the top of its head.

Range & habitat

This species is found across wooded habitats in central and western Africa, with its range extending from western Kenya to Côte d'Ivoire, with an isolated population in northern Angola. West African populations are most abundant in Ivory Coast with smaller populations in surrounding countries, while Central African populations are concentrated in Uganda, Kenya, and Cameroon, with smaller numbers in Gabon, Tanzania, and Central Africa.

The black-and-white-casqued hornbill is a tropical forest bird, preferring regions with high forest cover and rarely venturing into flat lands. Its arboreal nature makes it largely dependent on wooded habitats, where it spends most of its time in the canopy searching for food and suitable nesting sites.

Behaviour & diet

This is a monogamous species in which pairs nest together in suitable tree cavities. Females typically lay up to two eggs per breeding season. The black-and-white-casqued hornbill has an interesting relationship with hydration—it does not drink water directly but instead obtains moisture from the fruits that form the bulk of its diet.

The diet consists primarily of fruits, particularly figs, supplemented with insects and small animals including lizards and the eggs of other birds. Despite their reputation as strictly frugivorous birds, black-and-white-casqued hornbills are capable hunters of small prey. They demonstrate remarkable precision in handling food items using their beaks skillfully in conjunction with their esophagus to manipulate and consume both delicate fruits and small creatures.

Best time & places to see it

The black-and-white-casqued hornbill is widespread and still locally common throughout its range, making it relatively accessible for wildlife travellers. The species is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating stable populations. Visitors to forested regions in western and central Africa, particularly in Ivory Coast and the East African countries of Kenya and Uganda, have reasonable prospects of encountering this species in suitable wooded habitats.

Photography tips

Photographing this distinctive hornbill rewards patience and attention to canopy activity. The striking black-and-white plumage and dramatic bill and casque provide excellent photographic subjects, especially with backlighting that accentuates the contrast between dark and pale feathers. Early morning hours often provide the best light and increased foraging activity. Since these are arboreal birds, a telephoto lens is essential for capturing detailed shots from the ground. Look for feeding birds in fruiting trees, particularly fig trees, where multiple individuals may gather.