What Type of Bird Is Zazu From the Lion King? Zazu, the iconic bird from The Lion King, is a Red-billed Hornbill—a real bird species native to Africa. Known for their distinctive long, curved red beaks and expressive facial features, Red-billed Hornbills are part of the Bouceroside family. These birds are commonly found in the savannas and dry woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa, mirroring the Pride Lands setting of the movie.