Malabar Grey Hornbill
The Malabar Grey Hornbill is a medium-sized bird native to the western coast of India, particularly found in the Western Ghats. It has a distinctive grey plumage, a long tail, and a prominent curved bill, which is typically yellow at the base. This species primarily inhabits evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, where it plays a vital role in seed dispersal.
These hornbills are social birds, often seen in pairs or small groups. They feed mainly on fruits, insects, and small animals. The Malabar Grey Hornbill is known for its unique nesting behavior, where the female seals herself inside a tree cavity during breeding, relying on the male for food.