Habitat:
Tropical rainforests, wooded areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Sulawesi Hornbill, or Rhabdotorrhinus exarhatus, is a medium-sized hornbill endemic to Sulawesi Island in Indonesia. It is recognized by its black-and-white plumage, ivory bill with a red casque, and the vivid coloration of its throat: orange in males and pale blue in females. This hornbill inhabits lowland and mid-elevation rainforests and is usually seen in pairs or small groups. It feeds mainly on fruits, but also consumes insects and small animals. The Sulawesi Hornbill is impacted by habitat loss but remains locally common in some protected areas.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Sulawesi Hornbill, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture detailed images from a distance. Since this bird is suspicious, it's important to remain discreet and blend into the environment to avoid disturbing it. Favor early morning hours when the light is soft and bird activity is at its peak. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images. Be patient and wait for the hornbill to perch on an open branch to get the best angle.