Are you a curious birder eager to broaden your knowledge about the Abyssinian ground hornbill and its whereabouts in Uganda? Dav Safaris proudly presents the Abyssinian ground hornbill, a bird species that adds a delightful touch to the country's vibrant avian scene. Adorned with a jet-black plumage and a pop of vibrant red on its throat, the Abyssinian ground hornbill features an unusual helmet-like casque on its massive bill.

1. The Abyssinian ground hornbill in Uganda
Tour Operator: Dav Safaris Website: www.davsafaris.com Email: info@davsafaris.com
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The Abyssinian ground hornbill in Uganda
Are you a curious birder eager to broaden your knowledge about the Abyssinian ground hornbill
and its whereabouts in Uganda? Dav Safaris proudly presents the Abyssinian ground hornbill, a
bird species that adds a delightful touch to the country's vibrant avian scene. Adorned with a jet-
black plumage and a pop of vibrant red on its throat, the Abyssinian ground hornbill features an
unusual helmet-like casque on its massive bill.
Uganda's National Parks provide ideal natural habitats for Abyssinian ground hornbills to thrive.
With expert guidance from Dav Safaris, enthusiastic birders have enhanced chances of spotting
them at Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kidepo Valley
National Park, among other areas. Brace yourself for entertainment and captivation as the bird flits
and forages, leaving a trail of lighthearted wonder in its wake.
The Abyssinian ground hornbill thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, favoring regions with
warm temperatures and moderate rainfall. Well-adapted to Uganda's diverse ecosystems, including
savannah woodlands and grasslands, these hornbills prefer habitats with large trees for nesting and
roosting, with acacia and baobab trees among their favored choices.
Other Known Facts about the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill of Uganda
Evolutionary History and Confusion with Other Bird Species: The Abyssinian ground
hornbill, belonging to the Bucorvidae family, has a long evolutionary history and is occasionally
confused with the southern ground hornbill. Despite similarities, they are distinct species, with
differences in range and physical characteristics.
Why "Abyssinian" Ground Hornbill: The name "Abyssinian" is derived from the historical term
for the Ethiopian Highlands, reflecting the bird's association with this region. The term "ground"
emphasizes their terrestrial habits.
Primary Predators and Threats: Large carnivores and birds of prey are primary predators, while
threats include human activities, habitat loss, and poaching.
Display of Aggression: While not inherently aggressive, Abyssinian ground hornbills can display
territorial behavior, particularly during the breeding season.
Activity Patterns and Lifespan: Diurnal and active during the day, they forage for small
mammals, reptiles, and insects. In captivity, they can live for several decades.

2. Mating Behavior and Courtship: Elaborate courtship rituals involve mutual displays,
vocalizations, and symbolic movements to establish and strengthen pair bonds.
Favorite Meal and Foraging Habits: Their diet consists of small mammals, reptiles, insects, and
fruits, showcasing opportunistic foraging using their powerful bills.
Breeding Season and Incubation Period: Aligning with the rainy season, the breeding season
sees females laying eggs in tree cavities, with an incubation period of around 40 days.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are generally slightly larger with subtle differences in bill shape and
coloration.
Monogamous Behavior: Typically monogamous, forming long-term partnerships beyond the
breeding season.
Parental Care and Nest Building: Both male and female actively participate in raising their
young, contributing to the meticulous nest-building process.
Best Time to Spot Abyssinian Ground Hornbills in Uganda: Optimal during dry seasons from
December to February and June to August, enhancing visibility and providing better opportunities
for observation.