The Black-and-White-Casqued Hornbill (Bycanistes subcylindricus) is also known as the Grey-Cheeked Hornbill. It is a large African bird.

The Black-and-White-Casqued Hornbill is black and white, with a black head and shoulders and white on its wings and underbelly. It has an extremely large casque (cream-coloured bony growth) on its large beak. Its beak is decurved (pointing downwards).

Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill

It can grow to about 70 centimetres (28 inches) long.

It feeds on soft fruit, such as figs, as well as insects and small animals found in trees, such as lizards.

The Black-and-White-Casqued Hornbill is found in wooded habitats in central and western Africa, including Kenya.

The Hornbill is monogamous, which means that it pairs and mates for life. Their nest is in tree cavaties. Female usually lays up to two eggs.

Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill, Nairobi National Museum

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM