Bhutan: Great Hornbills

Another rare and extremely spectacular animal species we wanted to spot in Southern Bhutan were the massive Great Hornbills. And we got lucky on multiple occasions! This species is among the largest hornbills, measuring 95–130cm long with over 150cm wingspan and weighing 2–4 kg. Males have red eyes and a black-edged casque, while females are smaller with blue-white eyes and a smaller, reddish-backed casque. Their bright yellow and black casque atop a massive bill is a striking feature, and their heavy wingbeats are audible from a distance, often compared to a steam locomotive! They mostly feed on fig tree fruits but occasionally go for small mammals, reptiles, and insects as well. They are monogamous, forming long-lasting pair bonds. They are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, the global population is estimated at 13,000–27,000 mature individuals. In Bhutan, their habitat is well-protected.