The Visayan wrinkled hornbill gains its common name from the prominent and wrinkled bony crest, known as a casque, which is situated on the top of the bill. This medium-sized bird has predominantly black plumage, glossed with a green sheen, although there is a large white band on the centre of the tail. The male has a striking reddish head, neck and upper breast and a red bill topped by a particularly large 'casque'. The facial skin is a bright saffron-yellow.