| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Bucerotidae |
| Genus | Buceros |
| Species | B. bicornis |
| Binomial name | Buceros bicornis |
The Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) is the state bird of Kerala and one of the most striking and largest hornbill
species found in India. Known for its massive yellow and black casque on top of its beak, this bird is a symbol of
Kerala’s rich biodiversity and lush tropical forests.
Great Hornbills are mostly found in the Western Ghats, including protected areas like the Periyar Tiger Reserve and
Silent Valley National Park. They are omnivorous, feeding on fruits (especially figs), small mammals, and reptiles.
Their dramatic courtship rituals and nesting habits, where the female seals herself inside a tree cavity during incubation, are fascinating.
Due to habitat loss and hunting, they are classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Conservation efforts in Kerala focus on protecting
their forest habitat and raising awareness about their ecological importance.