Hoopoe
Image: 红梅 (cc-by-nc)
NameHoopoe
Common NameHoopoe
Scientific NameUpupa epops
FamilyUpupidae
Wingspan (cm)46
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)67.5
Plumage DetailsThe Hoopoe has a pinkish-cinnamon head, neck, and breast, with a distinctive erectile crest tipped with black. Its wings and tail are boldly barred with black and white. The bill is long, slender, and slightly downcurved, and black in color.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic call is a soft, trisyllabic 'oop-oop-oop' or 'poo-poo-poo', often repeated, which gives the bird its onomatopoeic name.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, savanna, grassland, orchards, vineyards, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Eurasia and Africa, with migratory populations breeding in temperate regions and wintering in tropical and subtropical areas. Resident populations exist in parts of Africa and southern Asia.
Identifying Featureserectile crest, long, slender, downcurved bill, pinkish-cinnamon body, black and white barred wings and tail, undulating flight pattern
Description
The Hoopoe is a distinctive medium-sized bird known for its striking pinkish-brown plumage, black and white barred wings, and a prominent erectile crest. It typically forages on the ground, probing the soil with its long, slender bill for insects.
