Rufous-headed Ground-Roller
NameRufous-headed Ground-Roller
Common NameRufous-headed Ground-Roller
Scientific NameAtelornis crossleyi
FamilyBrachypteraciidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsThe Rufous-headed Ground-Roller has a striking rufous (reddish-brown) head and upperparts, with a dark brown back and wings. A prominent iridescent blue patch is visible on its wings, contrasting with white streaking on its throat that forms a partial collar. Its underparts are a uniform rufous-brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of soft, low-pitched hooting notes or a mournful, whistling call, often given from the forest floor.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid evergreen and montane rainforests of eastern Madagascar.
Identifying FeaturesRufous head, Iridescent blue wing patch, White streaked throat, Terrestrial foraging behavior, Endemic to Madagascar
Description
This secretive, medium-sized bird is endemic to the humid evergreen forests of eastern Madagascar. It spends most of its time foraging on the forest floor, often difficult to spot due to its cryptic behavior and dense habitat.
