Abyssinian ground hornbill portrait posing at the Denver Zoo Photo Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

Boulder’s neighbor zoo includes the  two Abyssinian ground hornbills (Bucorvus abyssinicus). Here, on is grooming as the other is foraging or perhaps just enjoying the grooming. These large, terrestrial birds are native to north-central Africa. 

They are among the largest hornbill species, known for their massive curved bills topped with a bony prominence called a casque. 

• Males typically display blue facial skin around the eyes and throat with a vibrant red inflatable throat patch, while females have entirely dark blue facial skin. The birds in the image appear to be a male (left) and a female (right). 
• Unlike most other hornbills, they are predominantly ground-dwelling and forage by walking through savannas and grasslands in search of food. 
• Their diet is carnivorous and includes small rodents, insects, and reptiles. 
• They are quite vocal, producing deep, booming notes
• from Birds of the World 
• Found in the Denver Zoo!

• 

  A pair of abyssinian ground hornbills grooming and enjoying it! Photo Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

  Boulder’s near neighbor, the Denver Zoo, is home to Abyssinian Ground Hornbill. It is one of Africa’s most distinctive and largest hornbill species, characterized by a huge black body, massive curved bill topped with an open-ended casque, and distinctive patches of bare facial skin.

The male displays blue skin around the eyes and throat with a vibrant red inflatable throat patch, while the female has entirely dark blue facial skin.These beauties find shelter and care at the Denver Zoo, helping to insure their survival. 

Along with its southern counterpart, the Southern Ground-Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri), the Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill is unique among hornbills for its predominantly terrestrial lifestyle, specialized ground-dwelling adaptations, and carnivorous diet. Found across a broad band of sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia, Somalia, and northern Kenya, the Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill inhabits savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands, typically in drier areas than its southern relative. Unlike other hornbills, the Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill does not seal its nest entrance during breeding. It exhibits interesting social behaviors, including monogamous pair bonds, complex vocalizations, and sophisticated hunting techniques. Its deep booming calls, heard primarily at dawn, can carry for several kilometers and are among the most characteristic sounds of the African savanna.

Northern Ground Hornbills whispering to each other Photo Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

Though historically widespread and locally common, populations are declining across much of the species’ range due to habitat loss, persecution, and human disturbance. The species holds significant cultural importance among many African societies, particularly in Ethiopia’s Oromo community, where it features prominently in traditional beliefs, practices, and folklore. Currently classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, the Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill faces mounting conservation challenges as human pressures on its habitat continue to increase.

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Lenny “Lensworth” Frieling

Lenny Frieling Pen Of Justice

• Multi-published and widely syndicated blogger and author.
• Most recently published by Amazon, his first book, "Lensworth"a book of his prize-winning photos.
• University lectures at University. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels. Numerous lectures for the NORML Legal Committee
• Former Judge
• Media work, including starring in episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee, Distinguished Counsel Circle.
• Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
• Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML, and prior chair during legalization, as well as pre and post legalization
• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
• http://www.Lfrieling.com