Anthracoceros montani
The Sulu Hornbill (Anthracoceros montani), also known as the Sulu Black Hornbill, is a critically endangered, medium-sized avian jewel endemic to the Sulu Archipelago in the southern Philippines. Measuring approximately 50 cm (20 in) in length, its plumage is strikingly glossy black, perfectly contrasted by conspicuous white outer tail feathers, a key identifier distinguishing it from other hornbills in its range. Its all-black bill supports a relatively small, low black casque, which extends...
Inhabits lowland and lower montane primary and mature secondary evergreen forests, frequently found near coastal areas on small islands.
Primarily frugivorous, with a strong preference for wild figs (Ficus species), but also consumes a variety of other fruits, large insects (such as orthopterans and beetles), and occasionally small vertebrates like lizards.
Sulu Hornbills are diurnal, typically active during daylight hours and roosting in tall trees, often in pairs or small family groups. They are primarily arboreal foragers, hopping through the canopy to locate food. Breeding pairs are monogamous, with courtship involving mutual preening and food o...
The Sulu Hornbill is a highly range-restricted island endemic, historically confined to the Sulu Archipelago in the southern Philippines. Its breeding range once spanned several islands, including Tawi-Tawi, Sanga-Sanga, Jolo, and potentially Sibutu, though it is now widely believed to be extirpa...
Critically Endangered
- The Sulu Hornbill is often called the "Black Hornbill" due to its entirely black body plumage, a distinguishing feature among hornbills in its region. - This species is an island endemic, found only within the small and highly threatened Sulu Archipelago of the Philippines. - Its most remarkabl...