Rufous Hornbill

Buceros hydrocorax

The Rufous Hornbill (Buceros hydrocorax) is a large bird native to the Philippines, known for its striking appearance and distinctive casque on the top of its bill. This species is primarily found in lowland and montane forests, where it forages for fruits, insects, and small animals. Rufous Hornbills are known for their unique nesting behavior, as the female seals herself inside a tree cavity during incubation, leaving only a small slit for the male to pass food to her and the chicks. This species plays an important role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. However, habitat loss and hunting pose significant threats to its population.

Habitat: Lowland and montane forests