Amsterdam zoo equips injured hornbill with pioneering dual-beak 3D prosthetics

Artis Zoo reported that a southern ground hornbill had sustained injuries that destroyed portions of its upper and lower beak, threatening its capacity to care for itself and obtain food. Partnering with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht and the prosthetics firm Amnovis, veterinarians designed and installed 3D-printed prosthetic segments for both sections of the beak. While previous cases have involved a single prosthetic beak piece, scientific literature indicates this is the inaugural instance of a bird receiving prostheses for both halves.

The surgical team noted the bird adapted quickly, and the hornbill was seen feeding in a typical manner later that same day. The procedure showcases a novel application of 3D printing technology in avian veterinary care.