RHINOCEROS HORNBILL.— Bitceros Rhinoceros. 



As is the case with all the Hornbills, the beak varies greatly in proportion to the age 

 of the individual, the helmet being almost imperceptible when it is first hatched, and the 

 bill not very striking in its dimensions. But as the bird gains in strength, so does the 

 beak gain in size, and when it is adult the helmet and beak attain their full proportions. 

 It is said that the age of the Hornbill may be known by inspecting the beak, for that in 

 every year a wrinkle is added to the number of the furrows that are found on the bill. 



The object of the huge helmet-like appendage is very obscure, but the probability is, 

 that it may aid the bird in producing tlie loud roaring cry for which it is so celebrated. 

 When at liberty in its native forests, the Hornbill is lively and active, leaping from bough 

 to bough with great lightness, and appearing not to be in the least incommoded by its 

 large beak. It ascends the tree by a succession of easy jumps, each of which brings it 

 to a higher branch, and when it has attained the very summit of the tree, it stops 

 and pours forth a succession of loud roaring sounds, which can be heard at a considerable 

 distance. 



The flight of the Hornbill is rather laborious, and performed by rapid flappings of the 

 wings. While in the air the bird has a habit of clattering its great mandibles together, 



