Where does the Indian Grey Hornbill live?

The Indian Grey Hornbill lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.

Biomes

Tropical and subtropical dry deciduous forests, open woodlands, scrublands, agricultural areas, and urban gardens.

Geographic range

Indian subcontinent, primarily found throughout mainland India, extending into parts of Nepal and Bangladesh. Absent from the extreme west (arid regions) and the high Himalayas.

Preferred environments

Areas with scattered large trees, especially fig trees (Ficus spp.), along riverine tracts, and in well-wooded urban environments.

Elevation range

Sea level up to approximately 1,400 meters.

Where to look

Field tips

1. Look for Ficus trees. Indian Grey Hornbills are highly attracted to fruiting fig trees (Ficus species), which form a major part of their diet. Observing these trees can increase your chances of spotting them.
2. Listen for calls. Their loud, cackling calls are often the first indication of their presence, especially when they are in dense foliage.
3. Scan the canopy. They spend most of their time in the upper canopy of trees. Use binoculars to scan the branches for their distinctive silhouette.
4. Observe flight. Their heavy, undulating flight is quite distinctive. If you hear noisy wing beats, look up.

Migration

Resident and largely sedentary throughout its range, with only local movements in search of food.

Explore the Indian Grey Hornbill