The APNR Ground Hornbill Project was one of the very first organisations that we supported through our Frontier Projects & we are proud to still support them today. Working towards improving the nesting success rates of these unique birds, has far-reaching effects in their natural ecosystems. The ground hornbill is a keystone species and effective seed disperser that contributes to ecological succession processes. Because of their large spatial requirements, any successful conservation action in even one of their expansive territories has ripple effect on all other savanna and grassland species, including threatened species such as vultures, wild dog and cheetah.
Due to habitat loss, Ground Hornbill nesting success rates have declined significantly. Wild Wonderful World contributes to the reversal of Ground Hornbill population decline by sponsoring artificial nests, as well as the re-introduction project of redundant chicks. Breeding females lay two eggs, but the family group only raises 1 chick if healthy & strong. Since 2018, the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project has been taking the second, redundant chicks from the nests when they are 1‒2 days old, successfully raising these chicks and releasing them back into the wild.
