The white-crowned hornbill, also known as the long-crested hornbill or white-crested hornbill, is a species of hornbill.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia and on Sumatra and Borneo. Prefers primary lowland and hill evergreen forests, especially mixed dipterocarp forest with large old trees for nesting. It frequents interior forest but may move along ridges and riverine corridors. The species avoids heavily logged and fragmented habitats and is rarely seen in open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the long-crested or white-crested hornbill, it is a striking black-and-white hornbill of Sundaic rainforests. Females seal themselves inside a tree-cavity nest using mud and droppings, relying on the male (and sometimes helpers) to deliver all food until the chicks are ready. It is highly sensitive to forest loss and fragmentation, which is the main driver of its decline.
Berenicornis comatus. Close-up on the heads of male (right) and female (left)
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats and short glides between tree canopies
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and may engage in cooperative breeding. Nests in large tree cavities; the female is sealed inside during incubation and early chick rearing, fed by the male and sometimes helpers. Pairs are monogamous and defend nesting territories within mature forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud cackling yelps, rattling calls, and nasal notes that carry far through the forest. Pairs may duet, and groups give excited choruses when moving between fruiting trees.
