The
hornbill is a peculiar bird of Africa and the Philippine region. There are several species. The bird is distinguished by an enormous bill resembling that of the toucan. The bill is surmounted in turn by a large horn or casque. The manner of growth may be comprehended by considering it a tuft of feathers changed into a horn. Despite its appearance the
hornbill is said to be related to the kingfisher. It lives on fruit. The female nests in a tree after the manner of a woodpecker. When the hatching season arrives the male closes up the entrance to the nest with clay, leaving only a small aperture through which he passes in food to his mate.
