The Malabar pied hornbill, known scientifically as Anthracoceros coronatus and colloquially as the lesser pied hornbill, is a striking bird with a predominantly black plumage. It measures approximately 65 cm in length and is notable for its large yellow bill topped with a sizeable casque, which is mostly black. The bird's underparts are white, including a distinct throat patch and the sides of its tail. The trailing edges of its wings also bear a white coloration. Males can be distinguished by their lack of white orbital skin, a feature present in females. Juvenile hornbills are recognizable by the absence of a casque and weigh around 1 kg.
When observing the Malabar pied hornbill, look for its contrasting black and white plumage and the impressive casque on its bill. The male's lack of white around the eyes and the bird's size are key identification markers.
This hornbill favours evergreen and moist deciduous forests and often establishes itself near human settlements. It thrives in the lush greenery where it can find ample food and nesting sites.
The Malabar pied hornbill is a common resident breeder in India and Sri Lanka. Its presence is noted across three main regions within the Indian subcontinent: Central and Eastern India, along the Western Ghats, and in Sri Lanka.