The unique phenomenon has been closely documented by wildlife enthusiast Ajay Nadkarni and his eight-year-old daughter Ananya, a Std III student at Parle Tilak Vidyalaya (ICSE ). Ajay and Ananya patiently observed and recorded three complete breeding cycles of the hornbill pair on the same tree for three years
The Indian grey hornbill pair that was documented. Pics/Ajay Nadkarni
A Mumbai-based father-daughter duo have observed and recorded three complete breeding cycles of a pair of Indian hornbill birds on the same tree in Mumbai in what can be termed as an important documentation. It may be noted that Indian grey hornbills are typically shy birds of wooded habitats and the documentation shows that these birds have adapted to the urban landscape.
The unique phenomenon has been closely documented by wildlife enthusiast Ajay Nadkarni and his eight-year-old daughter Ananya — a Std III student at Parle Tilak Vidyalaya (ICSE ). Ajay and Ananya patiently observed and recorded three complete breeding cycles of the hornbill pair on the same tree for three years. Speaking with mid-day, Ajay said, “It’s been a privilege to witness such intimate moments of wildlife right in the middle of the city. Each season reveals something new about the resilience and intelligence of these birds.”
The male hornbill seen feeding the female an eggshell while she’s sealed inside the tree cavity
The nesting process of the hornbill begins with the male hornbill scouting for natural cavities in the tree. Once he identifies suitable spots, he “shows” them to the female by mimicking feeding behaviour. The female inspects each cavity before selecting the final nesting site.
Once the nest is chosen, a fascinating ritual begins. The pair engages in courtship, with the birds hopping and mating repeatedly on the tree before the female seals herself inside the cavity using mud brought by the male. She remains sealed in for nearly two months — a remarkable natural adaptation to protect against predators. Throughout this period, the male plays a vital role, tirelessly feeding the female through a narrow slit in the sealed nest.
The wildlife enthusiasts also documented that once the eggs hatch, the male’s responsibilities increase. It was documented that the male feeds the growing chicks a mix of berries, insects, and, surprisingly, food scavenged from nearby homes, including gathia, puranpolis, and chapatis. “This year, we knew the fledgling was here when they started feeding the chicks gathia — a sign we’ve seen in previous seasons,” said Ananya.
Wildlife enthusiast Ajay Nadkarni with his daughter Ananya
To encourage the chicks to emerge, the parents use a technique of gradual starvation and teasing, offering their favourite foods just out of reach. As the nestlings grow, they eventually break the mud seal from inside. “In a beautiful moment observed this year, a fledgling struggled at the nest’s exit for 15 minutes before the mother encouraged it with gentle calls… a moment deeply emotional,” added Ajay.
Concerned about encroachment and potential tree cutting, Ajay has formed a local conservation group with support from residents and authorities to protect the nesting tree. “Our goal wasn’t just to capture beautiful photographs,” says Ajay. “It was to ensure that these birds return safely year after year.”
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
