Sep 17

Bird of the day

Rufous hornbill

Buceros hydrocorax

The rufous hornbill (Buceros hydrocorax), also known as the Philippine hornbill and locally as kalaw (pronounced KAH-lau), is a large species of hornbill endemic to the Philippines (the largest hornbill in the country). They are referred by locals as the "clock-of-the-mountains" due to its large booming call which typically occurs every hour. They inhabit moist tropical lowland forest areas. They are now considered to be a threatened species. Its reasons for decline include habitat destruction, hunting and poaching for the illegal pet trade.

It is illegal to hunt, capture or possess rufous hornbills under Philippine Law RA 9147.

Aliases

Buceros hydrocorax