GAMBIA BIRD SPECIES

Abyssinian Ground Hornbill

Bucorvus abyssinicus

Overview

The Abyssinian Ground Hornbill is among the largest and most impressive birds of Gambian savannah. Its slow, deliberate walk and enormous bill give it a prehistoric presence.

Identification

Adults are mostly black with white primary feathers visible in flight. Males show blue and red bare skin on the face and throat, while females have mainly blue bare skin. The heavy down-curved bill carries a small casque.

Habitat and behaviour

It occurs in open woodland, wooded savannah and grassland with large trees. Pairs or family groups walk over the ground taking insects, reptiles, small mammals and other prey. They roost and nest in mature trees and range over large areas.

Birdwatching in The Gambia

The best opportunities are generally in less densely settled inland country, including the broader Tendaba region and farther upriver. Because groups roam widely, a sighting depends on covering suitable habitat and responding to current information.

Field note

Search open ground beneath large trees and listen for deep booming calls around dawn. Lamin Jobaate can build the search into a multi-day inland tour alongside nightjars, rollers and other savannah specialities.

Plan your birdwatching tour: Ask Lamin Jobaate about a private itinerary for this species and The Gambia’s other outstanding birds.