Spotting the African Grey Hornbill Eating Insects

I heard something outside. I was busy reading some of the philosophical texts that seem to never end and never leave me alone. I listened and thought whatever made the sound will go away. I was wrong. I walked outside and saw two African grey hornbills (Lophoceros nasutus) in the tree just outside where I studied.

Previously, I have never seen a hornbill so up close. I obviously walked back to where my camera was (why didn't I bring it with me the first time around?). I was so lucky! They still sat there when I came back.

Both flew down to the neighbor's lawn, there was obviously something that caught their eyes. Lucky for me, one of them decided they had enough.

It flew to the fence where I could see it in all its glory. These are some really amazing birds. They look too exotic to be flying between the houses in this urban jungle. I have never seen any of them in the area, it was the first time. I never thought I would capture one on photograph.

The other one remained on the lawn. Closer inspection after I took the photographs, I saw that it was eating insects. I am sure there were plenty because it remained feasting for quite a while. Luckily the owner's dog did not decide it was its time to chase these amazing birds.

After some time, it decided it had enough to eat. It flew away and sat on the telephone or electrical wires for a last moment. It was something out of the ordinary for me. I have never thought I would witness some of them so close. It is such an exotic bird, I have only seen them in photographs. Now, they paraded in front of me in their awesome and stunning appearance!

Have you ever spotted some of these amazing birds? They are spectacular.

I hope you enjoyed the photographs of these amazing birds. I do not know a lot about them. Where I normally live, in the Western Cape, we do not have such exotic-looking birds. It is more sugar- and sunbirds.

That just again reminds one of how amazing nature is. Between the houses in urban jungles, we still find these amazing creatures. They surely color one's life a little more than usual.

Happy birding, and stay safe!

All of the photographs are my own, taken with my Nikon D300 and Tamron 300mm zoom lens. The writings and musings are also my own.