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Ocyceros birostris
The Indian Grey Hornbill is a barometer of urban tree health. Their presence indicates mature trees with cavities — a rapidly declining resource in Delhi's development boom. Wildlife Rescue treats about 15 per year.
of total intake
treated annually
Deciduous forests, orchards, and urban areas with large old trees. In Delhi, found in Ridge forests, old campuses (Delhi University, JNU), and areas with mature Ficus and Peepal trees.
Endemic to the Indian subcontinent. Found across most of India except the northeast and extreme south.
Mainly fruit (figs are a favorite), supplemented with insects, lizards, and small vertebrates. Important seed disperser for many tree species.
Body length 50–61 cm, weight 275–420g. Distinctive large curved bill with a casque (hornlike projection) on top.
Famous for their extraordinary nesting behavior — the female seals herself inside a tree cavity with mud, leaving only a narrow slit for the male to pass food through. She remains sealed in for the entire incubation and chick-rearing period (~3 months).
Loss of old trees with suitable nesting cavities — the #1 threat. When old trees are cut, hornbills lose irreplaceable nesting sites. Window strikes. Competition for cavities with other species.
When the female hornbill seals herself inside the nesting cavity, she undergoes a complete feather molt — becoming temporarily flightless. She depends entirely on the male for food for up to 3 months. If the male dies, the female and chicks are trapped.
Your donation directly funds the rescue and rehabilitation of Indian Grey Hornbills and other birds in Delhi.
