Jacson’s Hornbill (Tockus jacksoni)

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Similar to other hornbills, Jackson’s hornbills have a unique and nearly predator proof way of raising their offspring. Before she lays her eggs, the female is sealed in a tree cavity by her mate. During this time, he passes her food through a narrow slit.The species is an example of sexual dimorphism, meaning there is a difference in form between males and females of the same species. The male Jackson’s hornbill has a red billed with a yellow tip (see above) and the female has a black bill.

In Kenya they are found in Lake Baringo, Lake Bogoria, Kapedo and the the  upper part of the Rift Vally mostly in Turkana area.

March 19, 2012: Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima)

March 19, 2012: Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima)

Photo@Joseph Aengwo

Giant Kingfisher is a crow-sized kingfisher, dark-crested,with white throat and a large black bill.Upper part of this beautiful bird is dark slate, finely spotted and barred with white.This species also exhibit sexual dimorphism with male having chestnut breast, white belly and black-and-white-barred flanks.Female is chestnut bellied, with densely black-and-white-speckled breast .

This bird is widely distributed in Kenya and can easily be seen in rivers, swamps and lakes.Areas where it is commonly seen include Subukia, Nyahururu, Lake Naivasha, Baringo and Kitobo forest which close to the Kenya-Tanzania border.