Bucerotiformes – Hornbills & Hoopoes
Previously a part of the order Coraciiformes, these brightly colored birds are now in order of their own
This order also includes ground hornbills and woodhoopoes! They are largeish birds with big heads and big eyes. A prominent characteristic of these birds is the dominant, hard beaks. The hornbills, in particular, develop a hollow casque (or a little helmet) over their bills. This chamber gives them a peculiar voice.
They nest in tree cavities. The female hornbill seals herself into the nest with only a small hole for her partner to feed her.
These birds feed mainly on insects, but some species also feed on fruits and help with dispersing seeds. Deforestation and hunting are known threats to these birds, prized for their feathers and beaks.
Families in this order
With a crown-like casque nestled on the head, they can easily pass for royalty among worldly birds
Rocking that glossy metallic finish from long before it became a vogue trend
Laden with exquisite colors and a crown of beautiful feathers, they are nature’s biological pest control
Long-lived, slow-breeding, and ground-dwelling. There’s more to unravel than that name hints
