Intriguing Avian Drama Unfolds at Lodhi Garden in Delhi
Avian drama grips Delhi’s Lodhi Garden

Image: Hindustan Times
An unusual avian drama is taking place at Lodhi Garden in Delhi, where a lone female Oriental pied hornbill is observed feeding the chicks of a resident Indian grey hornbill family. This unexpected behavior has sparked intrigue among birders, leading to discussions about adoption, territorial conflicts, and even infanticide.
- 01The Oriental pied hornbill is not native to Delhi, typically found in the Terai and Himalayan foothills.
- 02Observers witnessed the pied hornbill regurgitating food for the grey hornbill chicks, indicating a complex interaction.
- 03On Saturday, the pied hornbill was seen attempting to offer a dead grey hornbill chick to the nesting mother, raising questions about its behavior.
- 04Both the pied hornbill and another female spotted around Jamia Millia Islamia are believed to be escapees from captivity.
- 05The drama has attracted attention from local birders, with more planned visits to observe the unfolding events.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
At Lodhi Garden in Delhi, a captivating avian drama is unfolding beneath an old semal tree, featuring a resident family of Indian grey hornbills and a lone female Oriental pied hornbill. The latter, which is not typically found in the capital, has been observed feeding the grey hornbill chicks, leading to a complex narrative of adoption and territorial conflict. Birders, including Sheila Chhabra and Nikhil Devasar, have described the situation as a 'psycho-drama.'
The Oriental pied hornbill, primarily found in the Terai and Himalayan foothills, has been seen in Delhi sporadically since 2013, with two females currently reported. Observers noted the pied hornbill regurgitating berries and fruit for the chicks, but tensions arose when the resident male grey hornbill also attempted to feed them. The situation escalated on Saturday when the pied hornbill was seen trying to present a dead grey hornbill chick to the nesting mother, which was rejected. This behavior has led to speculation about the pied hornbill's maternal instincts and intentions. Birders are eager to continue monitoring this intriguing situation as more drama is anticipated.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The unusual behavior of the Oriental pied hornbill is drawing attention from birders and nature enthusiasts, fostering interest in local wildlife conservation.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think about the behavior of the Oriental pied hornbill?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





