Updated
The African grey hornbill is a medium-sized savannah hornbill, about 45 cm long, with grey-brown plumage, a pale stripe above the eye and a dark, curved bill; males have a small casque and a creamy patch at the base of the bill. It lives in dry woodland and wooded savannah, and in Uganda it is regularly seen in Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo, often flying between trees with a dipping, undulating flight.
African Grey Hornbill Uganda: Dry Savannah Hornbill Facts
Habits
It feeds mainly in trees, taking insects such as grasshoppers and caterpillars, plus fruit and small lizards. Its call is a series of plaintive, whistled notes, often delivered with the head thrown back and wings flicked. Like other hornbills, the female seals herself into a tree cavity to nest, with the male feeding her through a narrow slit until the chicks are well grown.
Where to see it
Look in acacia and mixed woodland in Lake Mburo, the Kasenyi and Ishasha areas of Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls north of the Nile and Kidepo. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to the black-and-white-casqued hornbill, ground hornbills, Lake Mburo and Uganda birding.
Frequently asked questions
In savannah woodland in Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo.
Mainly insects, plus fruit and small lizards.
The female seals herself in a tree hole and the male feeds her.
Males have a small casque and a pale patch at the base of the bill.
