The female hornbill is sealed into her nest in a hollow made by the male. He does this to protect both her and the eggs from dangers such as monkeys.
Great hornbills are generally found around primary forests that are thick, lush, and abundant. But lately, the birds have been sighted in coffee plantations too, foraging for fruit, even nesting on occasion. Sightings have been recorded in the Terai grasslands and Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, but the most recognised habitat of the great hornbill is the Western Ghats and parts of Northeast India.
Every year, as winter approaches, the heritage village of Kisama in Nagaland begins preparations for the annual Hornbill Festival. Attended by locals and travellers from across the world, the ten-day event is a celebration of the state’s cultural heritage. There are tribal dance performances, stalls selling beaded Naga jewellery, and plenty of local food and drink (from smoked pork to chhang) — all set against the backdrop of the lofty Japfu peak.
Credit : Roundglass
Picture Credit : Google
