The native Oriental Pied Hornbill was once extinct in Singapore. Thanks to a pair which returned to Ubin in 1994 and a successful breeding programme, there are now many birds on Pulau Ubin and at Sungei Buloh.
There are a few hornbills at the Istana grounds as well. Sada is one of them. He was introduced to the Istana in 2008 with his mate. The two have since produced 8 chicks.
Hornbills are loyal and devoted to their partners. When breeding, the female seals herself inside the nest for 3 months, and depends on the male to bring food for her and their chicks.
If you watch the SEA GAMES 2015 opening ceremony tomorrow, you may spot a hornbill taking part in the show. :) – LHL
(PMO Photo by Chiez How)
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