By Lindsay Cotnoir (University of Vermont)
A common and charismatic resident of Botswana, the Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbill (Tockus leucomelas) is often seen around our campsites. They are about the size of a crow, and are easy to recognize with their large yellow bill. This banana-like facial protrusion gave them the infamous nickname “The Flying Banana” in the short cartoon widely circulated enjoyed around Santawani camp in early March. Like other hornbills, Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbills mainly feed on the ground, preferring to snatch up insects, small animals and reptiles along with seeds and fruit. In flight, they flap rapidly a few times and glide a ways before flapping again. This is called an undulating flight pattern. They can also be recognized by their loud repeated call of kuk-kuk-kuk notes, which is often given while rocking back and forth.
Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbills are monogamous, and nest in tree cavities. Once a suitable cavity has been found, the female hornbill will seal herself into the hole leaving only a narrow slit through which she can be fed by the male. She remains inside until the eggs are hatched and chicks are old enough to accept food. Then she will break out of the nest, which will be resealed by the chicks inside. The parents will continue to feed them through the small opening until they are fledged. This nesting technique provides excellent protection for the female and young.
Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbill (photo: Susie Dain-Owens)