Ceratogymna atrata (Temminck, 1835)

Species Introduction

The black-casqued hornbill (Ceratogymna atrata) is a large bird that is mostly black in color, with bare blue skin and wattles around its eyes.

Body Length

Adults are typically 60 to 70 centimeters (24 to 28 inches) long.

Similar Species Distinction

It can be told apart from the similar yellow-casqued hornbill by the white scales present in its plumage.

Beak Casque Feature

As a member of the hornbill family, it is easily identified by the namesake casque structure that develops on its beak as the bird matures.

Sexual Dimorphism

Like many bird species, the black-casqued hornbill shows sexual dimorphism.

Sexual Dimorphism Traits

Males are larger, have black heads, and grow a larger casque, while females have a brown hood of feathers.

Shared Vocalizations

Both males and females have a powerful "braying" call that can be heard from over 2 kilometers away.

Male-Specific Vocalizations

Males, which are generally louder, also produce other calls, including a resonant squawk and a soft chuckling alarm call.