Narcondam Hornbill Bird Details
Rhyticeros narcondami
Narcondam Hornbill
Narcondam Hornbill
Jerdon, 1863
Bucerotiformes (HOOPOES and HORNBILLS)
Bucerotidae
Rhyticeros
Indian Location: Narcondam Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Appearance :
The Narcondam Hornbill has a distinctively curved and brightly colored bill that is primarily yellow with a prominent casque. The plumage is mostly black with white patches on the wings and a white tail, which can be more pronounced in males. Sexual dimorphism exists, with females typically being smaller than males.
Behaviour :
Narcondam Hornbills are known to be social birds, often found in pairs or small groups. They exhibit strong pair bonds, with the male performing elaborate courtship displays. They are primarily arboreal and can often be seen foraging or resting in trees.
Habitat :
They are endemic to Narcondam Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. The habitat consists mainly of tropical rainforests and dense foliage, which provides ample food resources and nesting sites.
Diet :
Their diet mainly consists of fruits, seeds, and insects. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal in their habitat.
Conservation Status :
Endangered
Distribution :
The Narcondam Hornbill is endemic to Narcondam Island, situated in the Andaman Sea, east of the Indian mainland.
Population Size :
The population size is estimated to be around 200–300 individuals.
Life Span :
10 years in the wild.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Narcondam Hornbill has a robust body with a distinctive curved bill. Its plumage is primarily black with white markings on the wings and tail, giving it a striking appearance.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 5–6 cm (2–2.4 inches).
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively large, featuring a broad bill and a prominent casque that adds to its unique profile.
- Eyes: The eyes are small and dark, typically surrounded by a bare skin patch that can vary in color.
- Bill: The bill is large, brightly colored, and curved, primarily yellow with a prominent casque on the top.
- Bill Length: The bill length can range from 20–25 cm (7.9–9.8 inches).
Length :
The total length of the Narcondam Hornbill is around 70–80 cm (27.5–31.5 inches).
Neck :
The neck is relatively short and blends into the body.
Size :
Medium to large in size compared to other hornbills, with a robust build.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and tapered, with white outer feathers that provide a contrasting appearance against the black body.
- Tail Length: Tail length can be around 25–30 cm (9.8–11.8 inches).
- Feathers: The feathers are strong and glossy, with males having more pronounced white markings than females.
Weight :
The weight typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 kg (3.3 to 5.5 lbs).
Wing :
The wings are broad and rounded, adapted for short bursts of powerful flight rather than long-distance soaring.
Wing Span :
The wingspan is approximately 1.5 m (4.9 ft), allowing for agile maneuvers in the forest canopy.
Facial Feature :
Narcondam Hornbills have distinct facial features with a prominent, brightly colored bill. The facial skin around the eyes is usually bare and can vary in color between individuals.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Narcondam Hornbills nest in tree cavities or natural hollows in large trees, often selecting mature and stable trees.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest is typically lined with decaying wood, leaves, and sometimes excrement. The female seals the entrance with a mixture of mud and feces, leaving a small opening for the male to provide food.
Breeding Season :
The breeding season occurs from March to July.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season for the Narcondam Hornbill (Rhyticeros narcondami) typically occurs from March to July.
Egg Color :
The eggs are typically a pale or dull white, with a slightly glossy surface.
Egg Length :
The average egg length is approximately 4.5 to 5.5 cm (1.8 to 2.2 inches).
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: The average egg width is about 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches).
- Egg Weight: The eggs weigh around 40 to 50 grams (1.4 to 1.8 ounces) each.
Clutch Size :
The usual clutch size is 2 to 3 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Narcondam Hornbills usually raise one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts about 38 to 40 days.
Nestling Period :
The nestling period (time until the chicks fledge) is typically around 70 to 80 days.
Vocalization :
They are known for their loud and varied calls, which can include honks, grunts, and whistles, often used for communication between mates or during courtship displays.
Sex Demorphism :
Males are generally larger and have a more pronounced casque on their bills compared to females.
Migration Details :
Narcondam Hornbills are not migratory birds;