European Roller
NameEuropean Roller
Common NameEuropean Roller
Scientific NameCoracias garrulus
FamilyCoraciidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)30.5
Weight (g)135
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is vibrant, featuring a turquoise-blue head, neck, and underparts, contrasting with a rufous-brown back. The wings show brilliant blue and black, and the tail is blue with dark tips.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically harsh, rasping 'rak' or 'krrrak' calls, often given during its distinctive rolling display flights.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, migrating to winter in sub-Saharan Africa.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant turquoise and rufous-brown plumage, Stout black bill, Acrobatic 'rolling' flight display, Often perches upright on prominent vantage points
Description
The European Roller is a strikingly colorful medium-sized bird known for its acrobatic display flights. It typically perches conspicuously on elevated spots, scanning for large insects and small vertebrates on the ground.
