Information about the Southern Groundhornbill with video, music, and slideshow
The Southern Groundhornbill is a very large bird found on the African savannah. It is about the same size as a turkey. It is conspicuous due to the black coloring of its feathers. Its primary feathers are white. It has a large curved bill and red skin around its eyes and throat.
They can be observed singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. The mother and father have male helpers who help with the immature birds. They are often observed in groups of 3-5 birds. The alpha pair are monogamous.
They produce a booming sound which gives them the nickname of "Thunderbird."
They feed on insects, reptiles, and frogs. Females lay 1-3 eggs at a time. Parents unfortunately favor the strongest chick which leads to a high infant mortality rate.
They are sensitive to accidental poisoning, birds have also been run over by speeding cars, and they also have suffered due to habitat loss.
ground-hornbill.org.za/ - read more about helping the birds here
Photos and Video by Tanja Nayak
Music and Video by Storyblocks