Wreathed hornbill

The wreathed hornbill, also known as the bar-pouched wreathed hornbill, is a captivating bird species that inhabits forests spanning from northeastern India and Bhutan to mainland Southeast Asia and the Greater Sunda Islands in Indonesia, excluding Sulawesi.

These birds are quite sizeable, measuring between 75 to 100 cm in length. Males typically weigh between 1.8 kg and 3.65 kg, while females are somewhat lighter, weighing from 1.36 kg to 2.7 kg. Although both sexes resemble the plain-pouched hornbill, they can be distinguished by the dark bar on their lower throat.

Usually classified as a monotypic species—indicating there is just one type—there is some evidence suggesting slight variations in appearance based on their geographical location.

Interestingly, wreathed hornbills have been observed in Florida, USA. It is believed they either escaped from captivity or were intentionally released. However, there is no evidence that they are breeding there, so the sightings are likely due to ongoing releases or escapes rather than the establishment of a self-sustaining population.