Nesting preferences and success of oriental pied hornbill in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, Perak.

This study investigated nest site preferences and breeding success of the Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris) in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, Perak. The objective of the study was to examine the nesting preferences of hornbills in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, Perak, and monitor nest success. Field surveys were conducted over 28 days, involving systematic data collection on 33 nesting attempts involving various tree species. Data recorded included cavity height, tree height, surrounding vegetation, and distance from human activity. Breeding success was assessed based on the number of fledglings that successfully fledged for each nesting attempt. A total of 32 nests were recorded as empty or inactive, while only one nest was found to be active. The results of the study showed that 78% of nests were found in large, mature trees with natural cavities because Oriental Pied Hornbills are known to be birds that do not build nests but rather seek out trees that provide cavities or tree holes according to the type of tree that is suitable for the survival of their species, especially on the edge of the forest that is less disturbed by human activity. Breeding success was found to be positively correlated with tree diameter and cavity height, while nests closer to human activity showed lower success rates.