The Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros gingalensis), an endemic icon of the island's forests, plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, especially for trees like the Ficus benghalensis (Nuga). This mutualistic relationship highlights the hornbill's importance in maintaining forest ecosystems.

In this artwork, the bird is depicted amidst two prominent trees: the Nuga and the Manilkara hexandra (Palu), the latter listed as near-threatened on the IUCN Red List. Perched on a Palu branch, a closer look reveals a Netria viridescent larva, which feeds on the tree’s foliage, showcasing another layer of the forest's interdependence.

A fascinating aspect of the Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill’s behavior is the nesting ritual. When the female is ready to lay eggs, she retreats into a tree cavity. The male then seals the opening with mud and clay, leaving only a small slit to feed the female and later, the hatchlings—an extraordinary display of parental dedication and survival strategy.

This painting celebrates the intricate relationships between the hornbill, its habitat, and the myriad of life forms it supports, emphasizing the delicate balance of Sri Lanka’s forests.