Ground Hornbills – Kruger’s Red-Faced Wanderers
One of the most exciting things about visiting The Kruger National Park is never knowing what surprise the bush has in store for you. While the Big 5 often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of other treasures waiting to be discovered and the Southern Ground Hornbill is one of them!
These large, striking birds are easy to spot as they stride through the grasslands with their jet-black feathers and bright red faces. They’re not shy about making an entrance either. Their deep, booming call can travel far, often heard in the early mornings as the bush wakes up.
Here are some fun facts to keep in mind when you’re lucky enough to spot these feathered giants while out on safari:
Fun Fact 1:
Younger ground hornbills have black faces, while adults have bright red skin. It’s their way of showing who’s still growing up and who’s all grown!
Fun Fact 2:
They don’t like flying very much and prefer to walk, covering great distances each day in search of food.
Fun Fact 3:
These birds are skilled hunters! They’ll eat insects, snakes, frogs, and even small mammals.
Fun Fact 4:
These birds can live up to 60 years, making them one of the longest-living bird species in the world.
So, next time you’re exploring The Kruger National Park during your next stay with us, keep your eyes peeled for a group of ground hornbills striding proudly through the bush. They may not be the Big 5, but they’re certainly a big highlight worth bragging about after your safari!
