Population
Estimated population is unknown (2010) and decreasing.
Status VU
Habitat loss through logging and conversion to agriculture, and hunting are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Rufous Hornbill (Buceros hydrocorax) [XC175485]
by Paul Noakes from PICOP, Philippines (call)
Rufous Hornbill (Buceros hydrocorax) [XC616128]
by Frank Lambert from Ulot River, Paranas, Samar National Park, Eastern Visayas, Philippines (call)
Subspecies
Subspecies mindanensis and semigaleatus rather distinct from nominate, and together may represent a separate species. Basilan birds described as subspecies basilanicus, but appear inseparable from mindanensis.
The following 3 subspecies are recognised:
hydrocorax Linnaeus, 1766 - Northern Philippines, on Luzon and Marinduque.
semigaleatus Tweeddale, 1878 - Central Philippines, on Samar, Leyte, Bohol, Panaon, Buad, Calicoan and Biliran.
mindanensis Tweeddale, 1877 - Southern Philippines, on Dinagat, Siargao, Balut, Bucas, Talicud, Mindanao and Basilan. Considered by some authors to be a distinct species, Southern Rufous Hornbill (Buceros mindanensis).