A New Huge Flight Aviary for 11 Hornbills

11 hornbills, including five great hornbills and six wreathed hornbills, have moved into a new aviary! Both the wreathed hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus) and the great hornbill (Buceros bicornis) are listed as ‘Vulnerable’ species.

Among the 11 rescued hornbills are two great hornbills, Kaew (Glass) and Mangkorn (Dragon), collectively known as “Dragon Fruit”, both of whom were formerly kept as pets. Great hornbills are wild animals and are not suitable as pets, as is the case with all wild animals. The other nine hornbills were rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, having likely been illegally captured from the wild.

Thanks to our generous supporters, we recently completed the new large aviary to provide an upgraded rehabilitation environment for these magnificent birds, who we hope one day can be released back into the wild. This aviary marks an important step in their rehabilitation journey. The enclosure features an environment that closely mimics nature, complete with trees, perches, and enrichment elements. The enclosure is also home to numerous rescued tortoises, who are also enjoying the new space.

Hornbills play an important role in maintaining healthy forests. By eating and dispersing seeds over large distances, they help regenerate forests and maintain biodiversity.

Hornbills face ongoing threats in the wild from habitat loss, hunting, and illegal capture for the wildlife trade.

Providing these 11 hornbills with an upgraded and natural environment is an essential part of their rehabilitation and welfare. We are so thrilled to see them flying around and thoroughly enjoying their new home.