History:

CONSERVATION: The Phoenix Zoo supports the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project's work in South Africa to reverse the decline of the southern ground hornbill. This project is using reintroduction to rebuild the southern ground hornbill's populations in areas where they have been extirpated and is working to reduce threats to this vulnerable species, such as poisoning, persecution, electrocution and trade. 

LEARN MORE HERE: https://ground-hornbill.org.za/

More Information:

• Large beak, topped with a bony prominence called a casque

• Long eyelashes, distinct facial markings

• Long legs help them forage

• Males have blue and red coloration on their throats, females are only blue

• Diet: beetles, larvae, spiders and vertebrate prey like lizards and tortoises.

• Also feeds on fallen fruits and seeds and will gather with other scavengers at carrion.

• 15 neck vertebrae

• aka: Northern ground hornbill