Great Hornbill Coastal Sighting

Core Event

• Rare Sighting (May 2025): Kerala’s state bird (Great Hornbill, Buceros bicornis) spotted in Kakkampara coastal belt (Ezhimala, Kannur).
• Unusual Habitat: Typically resides in Western Ghats’ forests (Silent Valley, Athirappilly). First documented coastal presence.
• Behavior: Foraged on fig trees (Ficus exasperata) near Ezhimala Naval Academy for ~2 weeks.

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Species Profile

1. Features:
   • Size: 95-120 cm long | 151-178 cm wingspan | ~3 kg weight.
   • Distinct Traits: Black-white plumage, hollow casque (used in mating/combat), colored preen gland secretions.
   • Sexual Dimorphism: Males have red irises; females have white.
2. Ecology:
   • Habitat: Wet evergreen/deciduous forests (600-2000 m elevation).
   • Diet: Frugivorous (fruit-eater) but preys on small animals opportunistically.
   • Role: Keystone species for seed dispersal.
3. Conservation Status:
   • IUCN: Vulnerable
   • WPA 1972: Schedule I (highest protection)

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Current Affairs:

• Connects to National Mission on Himalayan Studies (model for Western Ghats conservation).
• Highlights Kerala’s Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan.

PYQ Correlation

• Mains 2017: “How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation?”

• Prelims 2020: Q. Considered a “keystone species”, the Great Hornbill is vital for:
  (a) Seed dispersal (b) Pollination (c) Soil aeration (d) Water purification
  Ans: (a)

• Map: Mark Ezhimala (Kannur), Silent Valley (Palakkad), Athirappilly (Thrissur).