Southern Ground Hornbill
Bucorvus leadbeateri
Range
Habitat
- Savannahs, woodlands, and grasslands
Diet
- Reptiles
- Frogs
- Snails
- Insects
- Mammals
Weight
- Males 7.5-14 lbs, Females 4-10 lbs
Height
Wingspan
Lifespan
A Well-Grounded Bird
These large, carnivorous birds run along the ground spearing insects, reptiles, and small mammals with their beaks. Mated pairs raise one chick at a time which stays with them for years, joining the family group alongside elder siblings. All members of the group cooperate in raising the chick.
Did You Know?
- Their long eyelashes, which are actually feathers, offer protection from the sun and dust.
- This bird carries several prey in its bill until enough are gathered to eat all at once.
- They have white feathers that can only be seen in flight.
- Females have blue skin on their throats.
Conservation Status
A slow reproductive rate, habitat loss to livestock and agriculture, and human persecution have caused this species’ numbers to dwindle in their home range.