October 17, 2008, Nassau, Bahamas, Ardastra Gardens……. “Trumpet”, Ardastra Gardens & Zoo’s only Trumpeter Hornbill, is  living large in his very spacious new home.

Earlier this month, Trumpet was given clearance to move into his new exhibit - 300 square feet of lush tropical forest, reminiscent of the evergreen forests of Mozambique or Botswana where his species is commonly found.  And just which upscale development is complete without a swimming pool?  Yes, Trumpet has his very own private pool to take his bird baths at his leisure.  What a life!  Trumpet is indeed living large at Ardastra!

Trumpeter hornbills are social birds, usually living in groups of 2 to 5 individuals, although they sometimes gather by the dozens to feed and roost.  Before settling down at night, they often chase each other and play before sleep.

The Trumpeter Hornbill is characterized by a large grey-brown casque on its bill.  The eyes are brown or red with pink surrounding skin.  Other distinguishing features of the Trumpeter Hornbill include an all-black back, white belly and white underwing coverts, and red facial skin.

When in captivity, Trumpeters are tame, loving birds that can be taught a variety of tricks.  They are very intelligent and have a life expectancy of up to 20 years.  Like Trumpet, all Trumpeter hornbills require large spacious cages to move about in because of their active nature.   Perhaps in the months ahead, Trumpeter will invite a few of his friends to join him in living large at Ardastra.

“The Ardastra Gardens is constantly upgrading its grounds and exhibits” states Michael Jimenez, Director of Ardastra.  He continues “and we are always grateful for public assistance and support.  In fact Trumpet’s new exhibit was made possible by a donation from one of our sponsors. And members of the public who are interested in the sponsorship of an exhibit or an animal are urged to contact our offices.  Becoming a sponsor provides the unique opportunity of supporting Ardastra in our commitment to preservation and education and also helps to ensure that future generations of Bahamians are able to enjoy the Ardastra experience.