Scientific name: Coracias caudatus, lilac-breasted roller, belongs to the family Coraciidae. This bird is mainly found in parts of Eastern and Southern Africa.
This magnificent jewel-colored bird is proportionately large with a strong, small black beak. His blue head contrasts with sunset-colored cheeks.
The most striking part of the bird is its bright lilac breast, which becomes lighter as it approaches the throat.
The wings of the lilac-breasted roller have a span of 50 to 58 cm from tip to tip. The stunning deep blue color of the front fenders perfectly complements the ocean blue of the inner fenders.
It also has a dark blue forked tail ending in black stripes. The scaly yellowish legs of this bird end in robust syndactylous feet where the 2nd and 3rd toes are fused.
Adult male and female lilac-breasted birds are similar in coloration, although male birds are significantly larger than their female counterparts.
On the other hand, young birds of this species are colored differently than adult rollers. Their tails do not have black stripes, and their bellies and chests are reddish-brown rather than lilac.
It is also believed that Lilac-breasted Boulders mate for life, so in some African countries the bird’s feathers are used in an interesting mating ritual!
Say hello to the lilac-chested roller
Their name comes from their mating display, which involves many elaborate dives and swoops. They first fly 10 meters up and then quickly dive down with their wings closed.
They then maneuver from side to side and fly quickly, accompanied by loud and sharp calls to attract a potential mate.
After successful mating, the female’s eggs hatch in just 22–24 days. Their cubs cannot take care of themselves, so their parents must ensure that they survive.
After about 19 days from hatching, the young roller’s feathers will grow. They will remain in their parents’ care for another month before leaving on their own.
The Lilac-breasted Roller lays only 2–4 eggs per year.
These birds prefer to live in trees, and tall poles and usually avoid open wooded areas. They are not usually seen in areas with heavy foot traffic.
Although these birds are not aggressive, they are territorial. If any person or predator approaches their nest, even if it has no eggs, the Lilac-breasted Roller can be expected to attack.
Their colorful feathers are used in many African rituals. Historically, some African tribes have considered these birds to be symbols of peace.
Kings and tribal leaders sacrifice the Lilac-chested Roller to celebrate the end of the war.
In another ritual, a young Zulu couple wishing to get married is given a rope woven from colorful bird feathers. They will then be tied together.
If the chain breaks, it means they cannot work together and cannot get married.
The lilac-chested cutter sat on a high branch and looked out for prey.
In contrast to its cheerful coloring, this bird loves to hunt during forest fires. They hunt small insects and rodents trying to escape from hell.
They feed on beetles, grasshoppers, snails, lizards, and smaller birds. These birds force their prey into submission with their wings and swallow them whole.
However, this beautiful bird, a symbol of peace, is the national bird of Kenya along with the rooster!
What a view of the bird’s wings!
You can hear the call of the Lilac-breasted roller here:
With its beautiful colors and deep connection to some of Africa’s historical traditions, the lilac boulder is truly one of nature’s most beautiful creatures. This place is worthy of being part of any bird watcher’s must-see.
Even if you are not a bird lover, when you get the opportunity to see this magnificent bird, do not hesitate and take advantage of the opportunity. Of course, you should share your rare experiences with us, and don’t forget to take a lot of photos!
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H/T: pupperish