Lilac-breasted Roller
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)
NameLilac-breasted Roller
Common NameLilac-breasted Roller
Scientific NameCoracias caudatus
FamilyCoraciidae
Wingspan (cm)54
Length (cm)37
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsFeatures a bright lilac breast, a turquoise-green belly, and a rich brown back. The crown is pale green, the face is white with a dark eye-stripe, and the wings are a mix of deep blue, turquoise, and black. The tail is dark blue with two elongated black streamers.
Vocalization / CallHarsh, raspy calls, often described as 'rak-rak-rak' or 'kaaaar'. They are generally not highly vocal.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, woodland, shrubland, open grassland with scattered trees
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from the Red Sea coast of Eritrea and Ethiopia west to Angola and Namibia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresvibrant multi-colored plumage, lilac breast, turquoise belly, two elongated tail streamers, conspicuous perching behavior, syndactyl feet
Description
This strikingly colorful bird is known for its vibrant plumage, featuring a lilac breast, turquoise belly, and various shades of blue and brown. It is often seen perched conspicuously on branches or wires, scanning for prey before swooping down to catch it.
