Hoopoe
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q54800218" class="extiw" title="d:Q54800218"><span title="Scottish wildlife photographer">Charles J. Sharp</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameHoopoe
Common NameEurasian Hoopoe
Scientific NameUpupa epops
FamilyUpupidae
Wingspan (cm)46
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)67.5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly cinnamon-pink to sandy-brown, with contrasting black and white barred wings and tail. The most distinctive feature is the large, erectile crest of cinnamon feathers tipped with black, which can be raised when excited or lowered when at rest.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a soft, trisyllabic 'oop-oop-oop' or 'poo-poo-poo', which gives the bird its common name. It can also produce harsh churring or hissing sounds, especially when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, grassland, savanna, orchards, vineyards, farmland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Eurasia and North Africa, breeding in temperate regions and migrating to tropical areas in winter. Its range extends throughout much of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Identifying Featureslong, slender, downcurved bill, erectile cinnamon crest with black tips, black and white barred wings, distinctive 'oop-oop-oop' call, undulating flight pattern
Description
The Eurasian Hoopoe is a medium-sized, distinctive bird recognized by its striking cinnamon-colored plumage, a prominent erectile crest tipped with black, and a long, slender, downcurved bill. It typically forages on the ground, probing for insects with its specialized bill.
