Meet The Flock

White-crowned hornbills are among Asia’s most omnivorous hornbills, and Uncle is no exception! While often mistaken as primarily frugivorous, Uncle thrives on a balanced diet of mealworms, crickets, mice, fruits, and pellets at Bird Paradise.

In 2023, his wild relative made headlines when a male white-crowned hornbill was spotted at Pulau Ubin—the first sighting of this species in Singapore in over 40 years!

Come visit Uncle at Winged Sanctuary today!

White-crowned hornbills are a symbol of devotion due to their lifelong bonds with their mates. These birds frequently preen each other and share meals, showcasing their deep connection.

Spotting them is easy, where males boast a striking white crest from head to belly, while females wear a predominantly black coat with a subtler white crest.

The male even assists in building the nest by gathering mud—a rare and remarkable behavior among hornbills! Both partners then work together to raise their young.

During the breeding season, the female white-crowned hornbill seals herself inside a tree cavity with mud, leaving only a small opening for the male to pass food through. This clever adaptation protects her from predators while she incubates the eggs.

Meanwhile, the male diligently provides food, ensuring both the female and their eggs receive the necessary nourishment and protection.