Hoopoe
Image: mbergel (cc-by-nc)
NameHoopoe
Common NameHoopoe
Scientific NameUpupa epops
FamilyUpupidae
Wingspan (cm)46
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)67.5
Plumage DetailsThe body is largely a warm pinkish-cinnamon to sandy-brown, contrasting with bold black and white bars on the wings and tail. It possesses a prominent, fan-like crest of cinnamon feathers tipped with black, which can be raised or lowered.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a soft, trisyllabic 'oop-oop-oop' or 'poo-poo-poo' call, often repeated, which gives the bird its common name.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, savanna, grassland, orchards, vineyards, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Eurasia and Africa, with populations in northern regions typically migrating south for the winter. It can be found from Western Europe and North Africa across Asia to Southeast Asia.
Identifying Featureslong, slender, decurved bill, erectile fan-like crest, pinkish-cinnamon body plumage, bold black and white striped wings and tail, undulating, butterfly-like flight pattern
Description
The Hoopoe is a distinctive medium-sized bird known for its striking erectile crest and zebra-striped wings. It typically forages on the ground, probing the soil with its long, slender bill for insects and larvae.
