Mark, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Dies at Sacramento Zoo
A 35-year-old Abyssinian ground hornbill named Mark died at the Sacramento Zoo after a six-month struggle with heart disease and other age-related illnesses.
Sacramento Stockton Modesto, CA, August 18, 2026 —
Mark, a 35-year-old Abyssinian ground hornbill, has died at the Sacramento Zoo. The bird passed away following a six-month battle with heart disease and other age-related health issues.
Abyssinian ground hornbills are native to the savannas of Africa, where they inhabit grasslands and open woodlands. These large, long-lived birds are known for their distinctive casques, which are bony protrusions on top of their beaks. In the wild, their diet consists of fruits, insects, small reptiles, and rodents.
The Sacramento Zoo noted that Mark’s passing came after a prolonged period of declining health. While specific details regarding the progression of his illnesses were not provided, the zoo confirmed that his condition was linked to both heart disease and other ailments associated with advanced age. The lifespan of Abyssinian ground hornbills can vary, but reaching 35 years indicates a life that extended well into the upper range for the species, especially in a zoological setting where they often receive dedicated veterinary care.
The zoo has not released further information regarding Mark’s specific veterinary treatments or the exact timeline of his declining health beyond the six-month period mentioned.
Story summarized from the original created by Natalie Sierra on fox40.com, see more information here.
