Did you know that I named my little Coffeeshop "Hornbill Cafe"? It had it's own garden where customers could enjoy a fresh meal, coffee and the sunshine. It is not uncommon to spot the Yellow Billed Hornbill strutting on the ground in their protected terrain.
This incredible bird is my one of my favourites. I love the striking black markings on their white body; offset with that delightful sunflower yellow beak and just a dash of pink on the face. Interestingly they mate for life and remain in close family units, as opposed to large communities like many other birds.
We have a large variety of hornbill here in South Africa, but my favourite; by far, is the Yellow Billed Hornbill. Because I no longer live in the Game Reserve I now travel to wildlife sanctuaries to see the beautiful creatures. Birds of Eden, along the scenic Cape Coast, is one such haven. Imagine my delight at completing an unforgettable visit there, with a Yellow Billed Hornbill casually sauntering around me. I sat on a grassy patch beside a little pond. He approached curiously and only a little shy. I of course did not move except to sneak in some photos.
Is he not too beautiful to keep to myself? And so for this Feathered Friends SMaP Round 126 I'm sharing "my" Yellow Billed Hornbill with all of you. Thanks @nelinoeva for your bird on grass prompt to remind me of a special bird of South Africa.
