SINGAPORE - Sunny the hornbill has been named the Jurong Bird Park's animal icon. In its new role, Sunny will help raise awareness of the hornbill ivory trade which threatens the survival of the species.

The icon was introduced on Thursday (Nov 3) at an event at the bird park, which is run by Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

Dr Cheng Wen-Haur, deputy chief executive officer and chief life sciences officer of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, said the hornbill was selected "as we think this striking bird will be a relatable ambassador for all threatened bird species that need our help and protection".

Visitors to the bird park can learn more about the threats hornbills face through Sunny's daily appearances at the park's High Flyers Show, as well as the Hornbill Chit-chat sessions where they will come face to face with the park's hornbills at their feeding sessions and learn fun facts about the birds from their keepers.

Correction note: The story has been edited to correct the quote by Dr Cheng Wen-Haur.