Hornbill Escapes from The Living Desert
Incident Date:
12/15/2026
Location:
Palm Desert, CA - USA
Facility Name:
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Facility Type:
Accredited AZA Facility (AZA)
Incident Category:
Escape of animal (EA)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Hornbill
Animal disposition:
Recaptured
Summary:
PALM DESERT, CA – The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is sharing good news tonight after one of its most recognizable residents made a brief escape. Pilly, a southern ground hornbill, was safely recovered and returned to the zoo after wandering off the grounds last Thursday.
Zoo officials say Pilly was located this morning at the Vintage Country Club following multiple reported sightings from local residents and animal care staff. Trained staff were able to recapture the bird without incident, and she was found to be unharmed.
Action take by Born Free USA:
Notes: