Colius

Colius is a genus of birds in the family Coliidae, which is native to Africa. The genus includes two species, the African grey hornbill (Colius striatus) and the black-casqued hornbill (Colius monedula). These birds are known for their distinctive casques, which are bony structures on their heads that resemble horns. The African grey hornbill has a greyish-brown body with a black casque, while the black-casqued hornbill has a black casque and a black body.

Colius birds are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. They are omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. These birds are known for their loud, booming calls, which they use to communicate with each other. Colius birds are also known for their nesting habits, which involve building large, cup-shaped nests in trees.

The African grey hornbill is the larger of the two species, with a length of up to 70 cm and a wingspan of up to 100 cm. The black-casqued hornbill is smaller, with a length of up to 55 cm and a wingspan of up to 80 cm. Both species are threatened by habitat loss and hunting, and are protected under various international agreements. Despite their threats, Colius birds remain an important part of the African ecosystem, playing a role in seed dispersal and insect control.