Male Hornbill Skull

This male hornbill skull impresses with its massive structure and hollow "casque," unique in this family of birds. Both lightweight and voluminous, this casque serves more than just an anatomical function: it also plays an acoustic role, acting as a sounding board to amplify the calls carried through the canopy.

This bony casque is often more developed in males, making it a sexual marker, but also an intimidation tool. Some hornbills even use it for aerial “duels.”