The Narcondam hornbill is a species of hornbill in the family Bucerotidae. It is endemic to the Indian island of Narcondam in the Andamans. Males and females have a distinct plumage. The Narcondam hornbill has the smallest home range out of all the species of Asian hornbills.
Region
Andaman Sea, eastern Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
This species is confined to Narcondam Island, a small, steep volcanic island cloaked in tropical evergreen forest. It uses mature forest for feeding and nesting, depending on large cavity-bearing trees and fruiting figs. Birds range from coastal foothills to the island’s summit forests, moving locally as fruiting trees come into season. Roosts are typically in tall emergent trees, and pairs or small groups commute daily between feeding and roosting sites.
Altitude Range
0–700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Narcondam hornbill occurs only on tiny Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea and has one of the smallest home ranges of any Asian hornbill. It is a key seed disperser, especially of figs, helping regenerate the island’s forests. As with many hornbills, the female seals herself in a tree cavity to nest, relying on the male to deliver food. Its restricted range makes it highly vulnerable to storms, habitat changes, and introduced species.
Head of a female (C P Cory, 1901)
Narcondam hornbill photographed in 2010
Topography of Narcondam Island
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with deep, powerful wingbeats and audible whooshing
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, gathering at fruiting trees. Breeding involves cavity nesting; the female seals the entrance with a plaster of mud and fruit pulp, leaving a narrow slit for food deliveries. Pairs maintain small territories centered on key nesting and feeding trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are loud cackles, grunts, and honking notes that carry through the forest canopy. Wingbeats produce a characteristic whoosh that often reveals the bird’s presence before it is seen.
