Least Concern Birds

Crowned Hornbill

Lophoceros alboterminatus

Hornbill with crown, omnivorous in dry savannas and woodlands eating insects and fruit.

Scientific name	Lophoceros alboterminatus
Swahili name	Kasuku wa taji
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Bucerotiformes
Family	Bucerotidae
Size	Male: approximately 55-60 cm; female slightly smaller, about 50-55 cm; weight of both sexes around 200-300 grams

See this species in the app

How to identify

Distinct white crest feathers on the crown; large, curved bill with black markings at the base; body plumage mainly black and white; wings and tail with white spots; bare skin around the eyes is red

Habitat

Open woodland savanna, dry shrubland, open forests, and areas near river valleys

Diet

Omnivorous, primarily feeding on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits

When it is active

Diurnal

Where it lives

East African region, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and adjacent areas; commonly found in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

How to spot it

Active frequently at dawn and dusk; observe carefully in tree canopies and shrubs; loud and easily identifiable calls

Photography tips

Use a telephoto lens to capture details of the crest and bill; shoot during soft morning or evening light; keep background simple to highlight plumage colors

Threats

Habitat destruction and deforestation; locally affected by human activities

Similar species

Similar to other African hornbills such as the Red-billed Hornbill (Tockus erythrorhynchus), but the Crowned Hornbill has a more prominent white crest and different bill base markings

📖 how to spot the crowned hornbill on safari