This Weird-Looking Bird Has Feathers for Eyelashes
Meet the southern ground hornbill, a large bird that is easily recognized by the vibrant red skin on its face and throat. Native to the savannas of southern Africa, the southern ground hornbill population is sadly decreasing and vulnerable to extinction, so any chance to spot them in the wild is a welcome sight. Join us for daily safaris on
wildsafarilive.com.
Meet the southern ground hornbill, the largest of all hornbills.
Their magnificent beaks toss prey in the air before catching it in their gullets.
Their eyelashes are actually modified feathers that shield eyes from sun and dust.
Fossils of the "feathered pickax" date back 15 million years.
They're considered vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss, secondhand poisoning, persecution, and the wildlife trade.
They also have a long lifes span and breed slowly—making a possible recovery very difficult.
With a rapidly decreasing population, we cherish an opportunity to spot them in the wild.
