Tuesday 18 June White-crowned hornbill (Aceros comatus) White-
crowned hornbill fact file - Find out more - Print factsheet
White-crowned hornbill description The most noticeable feature
of this fantastically bizarre looking bird is its white crown
feathers which erect in a spiky crest. The white-crowned
hornbill also possesses an ornamental casque on top if its bill,
characteristic of many hornbills. The blackish casque is hollow
and serves no function, but is believed to be the result of
sexual selection. The head, neck, breast, gradual tail and tips
of the wing feathers are white, while the rest of the plumage is
black, with a metallic sheen to the upperparts. The large bill
is black with a greenish-yellow wash at the base. The bare skin
surrounding the eye and on the throat is a striking blue, and
the eyes are pale yellow. Females are smaller than males, and
are also distinguished by their black neck and underparts (2)
(4). - Also known as - Asian white-crested hornbill, long-
crested hornbill, white-creste