The Ceylon grey hornbill (Ocyceros gingalensis), also known as the Sri Lanka grey hornbill, is one of only two hornbill species found on the island. This endemic species inhabits lowland forested areas in both the wet and dry zones, occasionally venturing into lowland hills, though it is never observed in the higher mountains. They are typically seen in pairs or small flocks, except when wild fig trees are in fruit, which draws many hornbills together to feed from the same tree. 

The diet of the Ceylon grey-hornbill consists largely of wild fruits, though they also eat small animals such as lizards, tree frogs, and insects. Despite its size, the hornbill is quite inconspicuous, spending much of its time quietly perched among dense foliage and only being observed when in flight. They nest in cavities in the trunks of large trees, often high above the ground. The entrance hole is sometimes astonishingly small for the size of the bird, and is often sealed with ‘cement’ made from hardened droppings and mud.

Within the safety of the nest, the female lays and incubates her eggs while simultaneously moulting her wing and tail feathers. During this time, the male brings her food several times a day. Once her feathers have grown back, she pecks away at the ‘cement’ and assists her mate in feeding their young.