Knobbed Hornbill

With its giant yellow bill, bright casque, and loud, echoing wingbeats, the Knobbed Hornbill is one of Sulawesi’s most spectacular forest birds—and a powerful symbol of conservation in Indonesia. Known locally as "Alo", this magnificent hornbill is endemic to Sulawesi and nearby islands, making it a true flagship species for Minahasa’s rich biodiversity.

 Habitat

Knobbed Hornbills thrive in primary lowland and hill rainforests, nesting high in large, old trees. They rely on intact forest canopy for food, shelter, and reproduction.

Unique Features

The male’s most striking trait is the bright orange casque, a helmet-like structure above the bill, used in mating displays and possibly sound resonance.

During nesting, the female seals herself inside a tree cavity using mud and droppings, leaving only a narrow slit through which the male feeds her and the chicks—an incredible act of parental cooperation.

Diet

Knobbed Hornbills are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a wide variety of forest fruits. They also occasionally eat insects and small animals. As fruit eaters, they are important seed dispersers, playing a key role in maintaining forest health.

Conservation Status

This species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, mainly due to deforestation and hunting. Loss of large nesting trees and illegal capture threaten its survival, but it remains locally common in protected areas like Tangkoko and Gunung Ambang.

Did You Know?

Knobbed Hornbills are monogamous for life, and their strong pair bonds can last for decades.

Witness Sulawesi’s Sky Dancer in the Wild

Join our birdwatching tours in the lush forests of North Sulawesi and watch the majestic Knobbed Hornbill soar overhead or perform courtship displays in the canopy.

🦜 A must-see for bird lovers, conservationists, and curious travelers alike.

Discover Our Birding & Wildlife Tour Packages