The southern ground hornbill is one of two species of ground hornbill, both of which are found solely within Africa, and is the largest species in the hornbill order worldwide. It can be found in the southern regions of Africa, ranging from Kenya to South Africa. Within these regions, they inhabit both woodlands and savannas. The other species of the genus Bucorvus is the Abyssinian ground hornbill, B. abyssinicus.
Region
Southern and Eastern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Kenya and Tanzania through Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and into South Africa and Eswatini. Prefers open savannas, grasslands with scattered trees, and lightly wooded areas, often near riparian corridors. It avoids dense forests and very closed habitats, relying on open ground for walking and hunting. Nesting requires large natural cavities in mature trees or cliffs, making intact woodland elements within savanna crucial. It persists in some agricultural mosaics where large trees and open foraging areas remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This is the largest hornbill species and one of only two ground hornbills. It is long-lived and slow-breeding, typically raising only a single chick after laying two eggs. Pairs require large territories and nest in spacious cavities in old trees or cliffs. Its deep, booming calls can carry for kilometers across savanna landscapes.
Close-Up of Southern Ground Hornbill
Head of female at Philadelphia Zoo
Southern Ground Hornbill perched on a tree
Temperament
social and territorial
Flight Pattern
heavy flier with short, slow wingbeats; mostly terrestrial
Social Behavior
Lives in cooperative family groups centered on a dominant breeding pair, assisted by helpers. Territories are large and defended with choruses and visual displays. Nests are in big cavities, and despite laying two eggs, usually only one chick fledges due to asynchronous hatching. Pairs may breed only every few years, investing heavily in the single offspring.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Deep, resonant booming duets or choruses that carry over long distances, often at dawn. Calls include low ‘oomph-oomph’ notes and grunts used for contact and territorial advertisement. Vocalizations are accompanied by head-bobbing and pouch inflation.
