When planning a wildlife tour, not everyone envisions seeing a tiger. For some people, particularly bird watchers, photographers, and avian enthusiasts, seeing their favorite bird species is one of the most exciting aspects of exploring a national park. This incredible experience is available in your favorite destination, Kanha National Park, home to the famous Indian grey hornbill. The Malabar Pied Hornbill and Great Hornbill will make your tour more memorable. Kanha National Park is only a short distance away, offering lush greenery and enjoyable experiences. Go to the Kanha online safari booking website and get yourself there to photograph these incredible creatures. Read on to learn more:

How to Identify These Avian Species at Kanha

1. Indian Grey Hornbill

The Indian Grey Hornbill at Kanha National Park is a medium-sized bird with grey pigment all over the body; this pigment gets darker on the wings and fades to the underbelly. What is so special about this avian species is that the female Indian hornbill, at the time of the breeding season, gets herself packed through a hollow tree cavity and makes a thick protective layer for her nest, where there is only a tiny slit visible, so capturing her during your travel is truly a rare experience.

2. Malabar Pied Hornbill

The Malabar Pied Hornbill at Kanha National Park is also one of the greatest attractions here at the Kanha Tiger Reserve. These avina species are truly mad lovers of wild figs. As one of the known eaters, this particular species holds the name "farmer of the forest," as after eating the fruits, they release the seeds, which ultimately regenerate the entire forest into new, healthy fruits.

3. The Great Hornbill

India's one of the largest and one of the biggest birds, the great hornbill, is often spotted in Kanha National Park. This beautiful bird is easily identified by its huge yellow bill, black and white color combination with a distinctive large crest called a casque; and loud wingbeats with which it moves with grace in the sky. Reserve your safari with Kanha Online Safari Booking to venture into the most famous birdwatching spots with a knowledgeable guide.

Best Time to Spot Hornbills in Kanha National Park

The most suitable time to spot the magnificent hornbills is between October and June as this is the dry season and most of the activities for birds occur at this time of the year. You can catch them in their morning safaris and see them forage for their preferred diet of fruits, insects and search for the best nests to raise their families. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.

Why Hornbills Are Important to Kanha’s Ecosystem

Known as the “gardeners of the forest," hornbills eat fruit, and their seed-dispersal abilities over considerable distances are key to forest regeneration and the maintenance of ecological balance and a healthy habitat. Their existence is often taken as a sign of a pristine, unspoiled environment.

Conclusion

Though Kanha is most popular for Bengal tigers, the park's birdlife is simply breathtaking. Three types of hornbills found in the park, the Indian grey hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, and the great hornbill, will keep any birder amused and engaged. They have all sorts of unique behaviors and strange adaptations, and they provide you with some of the most stunning photo opportunities on the trip. If you’re planning your next safari, make sure to book some time and spot some amazing birdlife!