With their oversized bills, striking features, and loud wingbeats that echo through the forest, hornbills are among the most fascinating birds you can encounter in Thailand. But beyond their dramatic appearance, these birds play a vital ecological role. Often called ‘forest gardeners,’ hornbills help regenerate tropical forests by spreading seeds across vast distances. Without them, many tree species would struggle to survive.
Types of hornbill found in Thailand
Thailand is home to 13 species of hornbills, making it one of the best places in Southeast Asia to see them. The smallest and most commonly seen is the oriental pied hornbill, which can be spotted on some southern Thai islands, including Ko Phayam and Phuket. Other species, such as the great hornbill and the wreathed hornbill, are more reclusive and unlikely to be seen unless you go on a bird-watching trip in National Parks like Khao Yai.
(Photo: Roy Cavanagh)
Sadly, Thailand’s hornbill population is under threat. Out of the 13 species in the country, most are considered threatened or declining. The main threats to hornbills are human development and loss of forest habitat. Some species, like the helmeted hornbill, are critically endangered due to illegal hunting.
Hornbills are unable to excavate their own nest holes, so they nest in cavities in living trees. More specifically, they rely on old-growth forests with large trees for nesting. These trees take decades, sometimes centuries, to grow, meaning habitat loss has long-term consequences. But there is good news. In well-protected areas like Khao Yai National Park, populations of species like the great hornbill have stabilised thanks to conservation efforts.
Conservation efforts
Hornbills are protected under Thai law, and some species receive the highest level of protection. Although hunting or trading hornbills is illegal, poaching is still an issue, especially in remote areas.
The Hornbill Research Foundation and the associated Thailand Hornbill Project play a crucial role in conservation initiatives. They have been working for decades to protect these magnificent birds by monitoring and protecting nesting sites, installing artificial nest boxes, and researching hornbill behaviour and ecology.
In some parts of southern Thailand, local communities play a crucial role as ‘nest guardians.’ They monitor hornbill nests, protect them from poachers, and help raise awareness. This approach not only protects wildlife but also provides alternative income for local people and makes conservation sustainable.
Hornbill success stories
On the island of Ko Samed, south-east of Bangkok, Paradee Resort is leading the way in hornbill conservation. Working with conservation groups, the resort has created artificial burrows for the birds and also educates guests about wildlife protection.
In early 2024, a hornbill pair successfully nested in one of the resort’s artificial burrows and produced a chick. The success story shows how small steps can play such an important role in conservation efforts. Paradee Resort is part of the Samed Resorts Group, which is committed to increasing the number of hornbill burrows across Ko Samed.
Further along Thailand’s east coast, Ko Kood is another island that has seen an increase in hornbills thanks to local conservation work.
(Photo: Facebook)
Where to see hornbills
Hornbills are a relatively common sight on some Thai islands. The adaptability of the oriental pied hornbill, known as ‘nok gag‘ in Thai, means the birds are often seen near forest edges and even close to villages.
Visitors to the island of Ko Phayam have a good chance of seeing these wonderful creatures. They can often be seen in the trees around the island, with Wat Ko Phayam a particularly popular location for the hornbills. The birds are also regularly spotted near Ao Khao Kwai, with the quirky wooden structure at the Hippy Bar providing them with a lofty perch.
(Photo: Roy Cavanagh)
Travellers to Phuket may see hornbills on a boat trip to the island of Ko He. The birds are often seen in the branches of trees at the beach where boats land. These trees provide fruit which the hornbills feed on, and the birds have become something of a local attraction.
Away from the islands, Khao Yai National Park is one of the best locations in the country to see hornbills. However, it is recommended to join a dedicated birdwatching trip. Species that you may see at Khao Yai include the great hornbill and the wreathed hornbill.
(Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand Media Assets)
Other national parks that are good for spotting hornbills are Kaeng Krachan National Park and Khao Sok National Park. While there is a decent chance of spotting hornbills, you are unlikely to encounter rarer species which live deeper in more remote forests, such as Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary and the areas along the Malaysian border.
How visitors can protect Thailand’s hornbills
There are several easy ways that responsible travellers to Thailand can help the hornbill population:
- Stick to marked trails
- Avoid littering or using single-use plastics
- Choose ethical wildlife experiences
- Visit national parks and reputable birdwatching tours
- Follow park rules
- Keep a respectful distance (especially near nesting trees)
- Stay quiet near hornbills and avoid sudden movements
- Hire local guides who will know the best (and safest) places to spot hornbills
- Stay in eco-friendly lodges near protected areas
- Buy locally made products that support conservation livelihoods
