Von der Decken’s Hornbill

Identification

Von der Decken's hornbill is a small hornbill species distinguished by its blackish upperparts contrasting with mainly whitish underparts and head. The bird features a notably long tail and a long curved bill that lacks the prominent casque found on many other hornbill species. It bears a close resemblance to the red-billed hornbill, but can be reliably separated by bill colour and the absence of spotting on the wing coverts.

Sexual dimorphism is evident in this species. Males display a striking red bill with a cream tip and black cutting edge, while females possess an entirely black bill. These distinctive features make identification straightforward once the bird is observed at reasonable distance.

Range & Habitat

Von der Decken's hornbill is found across East Africa, with its range concentrated east of the East African Rift, extending from Ethiopia southward to Tanzania. The species shows a strong preference for thorn scrub and similar arid habitats, making it well-adapted to semi-desert and drought-prone environments across this region.

Behaviour & Diet

This is an omnivorous species with a flexible diet, feeding on insects, fruit, and seeds. Von der Decken's hornbill forages mainly on the ground, and outside the breeding season it readily forms flocks with other individuals, creating excellent opportunities for observation. During breeding, pairs demonstrate remarkable nesting behaviour, selecting tree holes which they seal with a cement-like substance composed of mud, droppings, and fruit pulp, leaving only a narrow aperture for the male to deliver food to the incubating female and chicks.

The breeding cycle involves the female laying two or three white eggs and remaining in the sealed nest during incubation. When the chicks and mother grow too large for the cavity, the female breaks out and rebuilds the wall, after which both parents work together to feed the developing chicks until fledging.

Best Time & Places to See It

Von der Decken's hornbill is most readily observed outside the breeding season when birds form flocks, making them more conspicuous in their arid thorn scrub habitats. The species should be sought in suitable thorn scrub environments throughout Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, particularly in areas east of the East African Rift.

Photography Tips

Photographers will appreciate this species' striking sexual dimorphism, particularly the male's distinctive red and cream bill which contrasts beautifully against its pale head. Ground-feeding behaviour offers relatively approachable photographic opportunities. The bird's long tail and elegant bill profile are key features to capture. Ground-level or slightly elevated positions may prove effective for photographing birds as they forage, while patience during flock formations in the dry season will yield the best chances for quality images.