NADIRA

Nadira is a female rhinocerous hornbill that resides at the Palm Beach Zoo. Rhinoceros hornbill is one of the largest hornbill species. It is native to the rain forests of Southeast Asia. It is instantly recognizable by its striking casque - a bright orange red structure atop its massive yellow bill that curves upward like a horn, inspiring its name. Adults have glossy black plumage with white thighs and tail. Their large wings carry them powerfully through the forest canopy. They are revered as a symbol of strength and the spirit world. The hornbill plays a vital ecological role as a seed disperser, helping to sustain tropical forest diversity. Males have red eyes from blood vessels from the iris and females have white to blueish white eyes. This difference in eye color is the easiest way to tell males and females apart in the wild. The eye lashes are actually modified feathers that grow along the edges of the eyelids that protect from dust, debris, and sunlight. They are sometimes hunted for their feathers, casque or as trophies. Deforestation for palm oil, logging, and agriculture has destroyed much of their rainforest range. They nest in tree cavities. Females are sealed inside the nest for months, making populations slow to recover if disturbed. Protecting them also protects countless other species that share their habitat.