They are a very cool looking species. I wish they were on exhibit in the savanna. Its fine to see them in the discovery zone but its always nicer to see animals with the other species they share a habitat with.
I'm not sure if it was because their were people continuously moving in and out of the Bird Barn, but they seemed pretty riled up in their holdings. I imagine they'd be more comfortable in a more open space. But like I said, they were probably riled up by all the people.
One of the reasons why these birds aren't in the savanna is probably because they are used in the bird and amazing animal shows. I think it is actually better to have them like this where they are able to fly multiple times a day for a large part of the year than have them flightless in the savanna, especially when there is already another large hornbill species in there.
There are 6 Southern Ground Hornbills in the Savannah, though I have never seen them, the zoo does have them listed in their "little" Collection book from last year.
And those two are always riled up, Henry (M, shorter bottom beak) more then Duale (F, top and bottom beak the same length), but when ever I or a keeper was passing through they'd get all excited.
You're right about them being educational animals. I didnt take that into account... Now I just want more for the savanna.
I did know there are 5 Southern Ground Hornbills, Mr. and Mrs Biko, Sansa, Arya, Unnamed 2013 chick and I guess there must be a 2014 chick. I usually have pretty good luck seeing them. When I visited last year I had a great time watching Mr. And Mrs. Biko call across the exhibit to each other while one of them was with the chick. Their call was surprising loud but it was also neat because you could feel the vibrations of their calls go through you. I have a video of it but the sound sucks.
