In Malaysia, ten species of hornbills are recognized, including the Kecked Hornbill, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Plank Hornbill, Kelingking Hornbill, Mountain Hornbill, Bamboo Hornbill, Feathered Hornbill, and Forest Hornbill. Unfortunately, many of these species are threatened with extinction and are listed on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Among them, the Rhinoceros Hornbill stands out due to its distinctive characteristics and urgent conservation needs.
Measuring approximately 90-100 cm, the Rhinoceros Hornbill boasts striking features: black plumage, white thighs and vent, a black band across its white tail, and a prominent orange bill topped with a red horn-shaped casque. Known for its short, resonant “rroh” calls, this bird is an iconic presence in its forest habitat. Regrettably, the Rhinoceros Hornbill is currently classified as Vulnerable due to significant population declines driven by habitat loss and intense hunting pressure.
Dr. Ravinder Kaur from the University of Malaya highlights that only six hornbill species have been confirmed in the Sukau Rainforest of Kinabatangan, Sabah, raising concerns about the status of the others. The threats to these birds are numerous: extensive deforestation in the Sundaic lowlands, fueled by commercial and illegal logging as well as agricultural development, has led to an estimated 43.8% loss of forest cover from 2000 to 2012. Additionally, hunting for food, trade, and ceremonial purposes—particularly among the Iban and Orang Ulu communities in Borneo—exacerbates the challenges facing hornbills. The potential for increased hunting of feathers and casques through online platforms further complicates their plight.
Hornbills are particularly sensitive to environmental changes, which can severely impact their populations. The decline of large trees, crucial for nesting, poses a significant risk. Since hornbills cannot construct their own nests, the installation of artificial nest boxes has emerged as a vital conservation strategy. These boxes provide alternative nesting sites as natural cavities diminish, but determining suitable heights for installation remains a challenge. Dr. Kaur emphasizes that, while artificial boxes can be beneficial, hornbills are selective about their nesting locations, making careful placement essential.
World Migratory Bird Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats. This year, we shine a spotlight on the Rhinoceros Hornbill, Malaysia’s national bird and a remarkable symbol of biodiversity. Birdwatching opportunities abound at locations such as Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu, Taman Negara in Pahang, and Royal Belum State Park in Perak. These sites offer a chance to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitats while raising awareness of the critical conservation efforts necessary for their protection.
Safeguarding the Rhinoceros Hornbill and its habitat is not only essential for the survival of this extraordinary bird but also crucial for preserving the rich biodiversity of Malaysia’s forests. Through ongoing conservation efforts that address the threats these species face, we can ensure that future generations will continue to witness the beauty and ecological importance of hornbills. Protecting their breeding and nesting sites will help these unique birds thrive, contributing to the overall health of our environment.
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Image Credit:
Wich’yanan L/Wikimedia Commons
Sources:
BirdLife International (BirdLife International). (2020, September 15). IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: Buceros rhinoceros. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22682450/184960407
Aziz, I. H. (2023, February 21). Burung enggang diancam kepupusan. Berita Harian.
https://www.bharian.com.my/hujung-minggu/lain-lain/2023/02/1066593/burung-enggang-diancam-kepupusan
Gauchan, S. (2024, September 17). EcoTravel guide: Hornbills of Malaysia. Malaysian Wildlife. https://malaysianwildlife.org/travel/ecotravel-guide-hornbills-of-malaysia/
