3rd March 2026 Lathika & Beena
Hi, just look at what Mrs Lathika has created—a breathtaking series of oil paintings capturing the majestic Great Hornbill in various poses, including its magnificent flight. Until now, I had always thought Hornbills lived only in remote jungles, far from our daily lives.
The Great Hornbill she painted is not just a bird—it is a symbol of pride, serving as the state bird of both Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh in India. In Sarawak, it holds deep cultural significance for the Dayak community. Remarkably, Hornbills are also found in Africa, linking cultures and continents.
The Great Hornbill differs from the Rhinoceros Hornbill of Sarawak: its vibrant orange-red casque curves upward, unlike the flat or downward-pointing yellow-black casque of the Kerala bird. The Sarawak Hornbill is mostly black with a striking white tail, while its Kerala counterpart has a yellow neck and distinctive white patches on the body and tail. These magnificent birds inhabit the humid rainforests of Sarawak and the lush evergreen forests of Kerala. Sadly, both species are now endangered, with their survival threatened by the relentless loss of habitat.
It is truly fascinating that such an extraordinary bird graces vastly different corners of the world. Yet this shared marvel is under grave threat—deforestation and human encroachment are pushing Hornbills towards extinction. Protecting their habitats is not merely a hope but an urgent responsibility, so that future generations might continue to witness these wonders of nature.