Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill

Tockus damarensis

The Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill (Tockus damarensis) is a medium-sized bird native to southern Africa. It is characterized by its striking yellow bill, black and white plumage, and a long, curved casque on top of the bill. These birds are often found in savannas, woodlands, and scrublands, where they forage for insects, small reptiles, and fruits. They are known for their distinctive 'tok-tok' call and their habit of sunning themselves with wings outstretched. Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills are monogamous and nest in natural tree cavities. They play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. However, their populations are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation.

Habitat: Savannas, woodlands, and scrublands