Mysterious Hornbill behaviour surprises bird watchers in Delhi’s Lodhi Garden

A rare and mysterious bird behaviour has been reportedly discovered in Delhi’s Lodhi Garden, attracting the attention of bird watchers and scientists across India. A female Pied Hornbill has been seen helping an Indian Grey Hornbill couple feed their chicks, something that has never been recorded before. 

The unusual event was first noticed on May 12 by retired school principal and bird enthusiast Anu Mathur. She was reportedly birdwatching in Lodhi Garden when she spotted a pair of Indian Grey Hornbills near a nest. At first, everything appeared normal. The male hornbill was feeding the female, who was sealed inside the nest while caring for her eggs and chicks (baby birds).

observing the nest, Mathur reportedly noticed something unexpected. A female Pied Hornbill, a larger black and white bird that belongs to a different species, also visited the nest and offered food to the female Grey Hornbill. This immediately raised questions because Pied Hornbills are not known to help raise the young of Grey Hornbills.

Mathur shared her photographs and observations on a birdwatching WhatsApp group in the National Capital Region. The post quickly attracted attention from experienced birders.Birders reportedly confirmed that the nest belongs to the Indian Grey Hornbills because there are no male Pied Hornbills in the Delhi region. Another female Pied Hornbill has been seen in South Delhi near Jamia Millia Islamia, but no male Pied Hornbill has been spotted, as per reports. 

The female Grey Hornbill is reportedly expected to emerge from the nest soon, as she has already started breaking the seal. The incident also highlights the importance of citizen science. A simple observation made by a nature lover led to a discovery that is now being discussed by bird experts throughout the country.