The hornbill is a unique and iconic bird found in Sri Lanka. With its large curved bill and vibrant plumage, the hornbill has captured the interest of both locals and visitors to the island nation. But what exactly do Sri Lankans call this magnificent bird in their native Sinhala language?
Quick Answer: The Sinhala Name for Hornbill is Mal-koha
In Sinhala, the most commonly used name for the hornbill is “Mal-koha”. This literally translates to “flower pecker”, referring to the hornbill’s habit of feeding on nectar from flowers. The Sinhala name describes one of the unique features of this bird – its large, curved bill which it uses to “peck” at flowers.
An Overview of Hornbills in Sri Lanka
There are three species of hornbill that can be found in Sri Lanka:
- The Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill
- The Malabar Pied Hornbill
- The Indian Grey Hornbill
Of these, the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill is endemic to the island. The other two species are regional migrants. Hornbills are most numerous in the wet lowland forests in southwestern Sri Lanka.
These large birds play an important ecological role by dispersing seeds and controlling rodent populations. Their loud, honking calls are a distinctive sound of Sri Lanka’s forests. Hornbills mate for life and use tree cavities for nesting.
The Origins and Meanings of “Mal-koha”
“Mal” translates to “flower” in Sinhala. “Koha” comes from the word “kohila” meaning “bill” or “beak”. So the term literally means “flower bill” or “flower pecker”.
This name refers to the hornbill’s curved casque which is uses to feed on nectar, fruit, and small animals. The bill is such a distinctive feature that it gave rise to the bird’s common English name – hornbill.
In Sinhala, “mal-koha” can refer specifically to the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill which is the island’s only endemic hornbill species. But it is also used as a general term for all hornbill species found in the region.
Other Sinhala Names for the Hornbill
While “mal-koha” is the most widely used term, there are some other regional Sinhala names used for the hornbill:
- Konduru – Also refers to the distinctive bill
- Thalagoya – Meaning “head of the sky”
- Rathu-thambiliya – Meaning “red toucan”
These alternative names draw connections between the hornbill’s appearance and other birds like the toucan. They also refer to how the hornbill flies high across the sky.
The Hornbill in Sri Lankan Culture
The hornbill features prominently in Sri Lankan folklore, art, and jewelry. It is seen as a protective charm and associated with fidelity and monogamy because hornbills mate for life.
A folk story describes how a hornbill once protected Prince Vijaya, the legendary founder of Sinhala civilization in Sri Lanka. For this reason, it is considered an auspicious bird.
Sri Lankan artisans produce masks, sculpture carvings, and lacquerware depicting hornbills. Jewelry like pendants and brooches featuring the hornbill casque are popular.
The Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill is the national bird of Sri Lanka. It appears on the 1000 rupee banknote and on some postage stamps.
Identifying the Hornbill in the Wild
Here are some tips for identifying the hornbill when you encounter it in the wild:
- Look for its very large, downward curved bill with a casque on top
- Watch for its distinctive undulating flight pattern, with regular wingbeats
- Listen for loud honking, cackling, or whooping calls
- Note the mainly black plumage, with white undertail coverts
- See the bare yellow or red throat skin when it calls
- Watch for pairs or small flocks traveling together
Best Places to See Hornbills in Sri Lanka
Here are some notable national parks and nature sites where you can spot hornbills in Sri Lanka:
Location | Key Facts |
---|---|
Sinharaja Forest Reserve | Tropical rainforest with healthy hornbill populations |
Yala National Park | Dry forest home to all 3 Sri Lankan hornbill species |
Bundala National Park | Coastal wetlands where hornbills gather to nest |
Kitulgala Forest Reserve | Wet lowland forest with resident hornbills |
Horton Plains National Park | Montane grasslands visited by migrant hornbills |
Conclusion
In summary, the most widely used name for the hornbill in Sinhala is “mal-koha”, meaning flower-pecker. This name refers to the hornbill’s distinctive large, curved bill adapted for feeding on fruit and nectar. The hornbill holds an important place in Sri Lankan culture as the national bird and is considered an auspicious creature. Birdwatchers have the best chance of spotting hornbills in Sri Lanka’s wet lowland forests, though they also visit montane grasslands and coastal wetlands.