Ruchira Nigam, Asif Ahmad Siddiqui, Monowar Alam Khalid and Chitra Singh
Abstract
Through behavioural observations of wild birds, there are important data on the ecology, socialization, and habitat needs of the wild animals. Anthracoceros albirostris (Oriental Pied Hornbill) is a well-reversed hornbill bird species that is widespread in South and Southeast Asia, the behavioural data on the species are limited in India. In the wild surveys that were carried out in Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, a novel social behaviour was noted, sand bathing to the group of several individuals. This observation has been the earliest known account of this activity in the Terai region besides helping us understand the ethology of the hornbills. Sand bathing, behavioural form which is generally linked to feather care and controlling ectoparasites was noted both in adult males and females and, therefore, has the potential connection with ecological and social importance. The current investigation gives baseline data to a future description of behaviour, ecosystem, and conservation study of the hornbills in North India.