Lophoceros semifasciatus
The West African Pied Hornbill (Lophoceros semifasciatus) is a striking, medium-sized hornbill known for its distinctive black and white plumage and prominent bill. Measuring approximately 45-50 cm (18-20 inches) in length, its upperparts are glossy black, contrasting sharply with its white underparts and a conspicuous white patch on the lower back and rump, visible in flight. A key identification feature is its large, pale yellow or cream-colored bill, which sports a modest, low casque (a bo...
Found primarily in lowland and gallery forests, secondary growth, and forest edges, typically at elevations below 1000 meters.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting predominantly of fruits (especially figs and oil palm), large insects, and small vertebrates like lizards, frogs, and bird eggs.
West African Pied Hornbills are diurnal and highly arboreal, spending most of their time foraging in the canopy and mid-story. They are generally seen in monogamous pairs or small family groups, often becoming territorial during the breeding season and using their loud calls to announce their pre...
The West African Pied Hornbill is a resident, non-migratory species found exclusively in West Africa. Its distribution spans from Sierra Leone and Liberia eastward through Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and into western Nigeria and western Cameroon. It is predominantly associated with t...
Least Concern
- The female West African Pied Hornbill seals herself into a tree cavity with mud and feces, relying entirely on the male for food during incubation and early chick rearing. - The casque on its bill, while less pronounced than some other hornbill species, is thought to play a role in sexual displ...