Great Blue Turaco
NameGreat Blue Turaco
Common NameGreat Blue Turaco
Scientific NameCorythaeola cristata
FamilyMusophagidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)73
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsPredominantly blue-grey plumage on the body and wings, with a long, dark blue tail tipped with black. It features a prominent black, spiky crest, a bright yellow bill with a red tip, and a red eye-ring. The belly is whitish to pale cream, and the undertail coverts and thighs are rufous-chestnut.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its deep, resonant hooting calls, often described as a series of 'koo-koo-koo' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa' sounds, which can accelerate into a cackle.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in central and western Africa, ranging from Nigeria east to Uganda and south to Angola.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent black spiky crest, Bright yellow bill with red tip, Red eye-ring, Blue-grey body plumage, Rufous undertail coverts
Description
The Great Blue Turaco is the largest species of turaco, characterized by its striking blue-grey plumage and a prominent black crest. This arboreal bird primarily inhabits the canopy of dense African forests, where it forages for fruits.
