Burundi is an interesting country, to say the least, in central Africa next to The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania. This country, with it's beautiful scenery and gorgeous green forests, has some very interesting inhabitants. One of which is the
Trumpeter Hornbill, (Bycanistes Bucinator), and are similar to their cousin the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill.
They are all black with a white belly and also white under their wings. They usually live in small groups of two to five but have sometimes been seen to live in communities of up to 20 to 50 birds. Living in the tropical evergreen forests and feed on the abundant fruit and insects. The female, only slightly smaller than that of the male, usually lay four to five eggs. If kept in captivity they are very friendly and love attention.
The Shoebill is another interesting bird that lives in Burundi. Also known as Whalehead, (Balaenicps Rex), getting their name from the shape of their large bill. Although known in ancient Egyptian and Arabian cultures they were never seen until the 19th century, and never seen alive until long after their skins were brought to Europe. They can get up to 60 inches in height and have a wingspan of about 125 inches. They live mainly in march areas, with a forest canopy and mainly eat frogs, fish and anything that inhabits the muddy waters they prey.
The females lay one to three eggs during the dry season and nest on the ground. Their classification is something of a constant change as it seems evidence of their biochemical evidence always has something new to say about them. Some consider the bird to be the missing link between the Pelican and the Stork, as new DNA evidence has suggested.