Yellow-billed Turaco
NameYellow-billed Turaco
Common NameYellow-billed Turaco
Scientific NameTauraco macrorhynchus
FamilyMusophagidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)41
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and breast are bright green, topped with a green crest that has a red tip. A distinct white line borders the eye. The back, wings, and tail are glossy dark blue, with a reddish-purple sheen on the lower back. The underparts are dark blue, and a bright red patch is visible on the underwing during flight. The bill is bright yellow with a red tip.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a loud, deep, guttural 'kow-kow-kow' or 'caw-caw-caw' call, often given in a series, which can be quite resonant and carries well through the forest.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, with a range extending from Sierra Leone east to Ghana, and then disjunctly from Nigeria east through Cameroon, Gabon, and the Central African Republic.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow bill with a red tip, Vibrant green head and crest, Distinct white eye-ring, Glossy dark blue body plumage, Red underwing patches (visible in flight)
Description
The Yellow-billed Turaco is a striking arboreal bird characterized by its vibrant green head and crest, dark blue body, and a prominent bright yellow bill. It primarily inhabits tropical forests, feeding on fruits and moving through the canopy with agile leaps and short flights.
