Wreathed Hornbill

 Hornbills are medium to large bird specialized in their habitat, feeding and nesting behaviours. Present in tropical and subtropical areas of Bhutan, hornbills play vital role in the forest ecosystem.  It is acclaimed that there are around 54 species of hornbills present globally (Kemp, 1995). However, studies have indicated that Bhutan houses only four species of hornbills such as (Bucerotidae) Wreathed Hornbill (Aceros undulates), Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris), Rufous-necked (Aceros nipalensis), and Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) (Sherab, 2017; Webster, 2011; Clements, 1992).

Sarpang dzongkhag being located within the protected areas of Royal Manas National Park, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park harbours all four species of hornbills. Most importantly, Dekiling Gewog host all four species of hornbills. Dekiling is located at around 1100 feet (350m) above sea level at 26° 52’50” N and 90° 20’14” E in subtropical zones of Indo-Bhutan border and the mid-Montana range.

Rufous-necked hornbills are present in the higher region of Dekiling gewog while the other three species are a local resident. Out of three local residents of hornbill at Dekiling, Wreath hornbill is found greater in number than the others for the last one year’s observation. Although it is indicated as vulnerable by IUCN (https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22682528/132400385),  one will astonish to see such a great flock (more 10 -15 in numbers) together at Dekiling.  

Oriental-pied Hornbill

Great Hornbill

Rufous-necked Hornbill

Wreathed Hornbill

Wreathed Hornbill also called as Bar-pouched Wreathed Hornbill is mostly black with a full whitetail. Male has chestnut brown on the head and bright yellow throat while the female has a bright blue throat. There mark on the throat of both male and female. The casque on the beak looks more like a carved piece of wood with neat furrows or wreaths from which it gets its common name. They have a call with three notes that sounds like oek-uk-uk and is repeated several times, sometimes very loudly, at other times more softly (https://www.hornbills.in/).

The presence of hornbills indicates the good health of the forest.