Bird · GBIF taxon 2475360
Lilac-breasted Roller
Coracias caudatusAlso known as Fork-tailed Roller, Lilac-throated Roller, Mosilikatze's Roller, Troupand
Lilac-breasted rollers spend long periods perching motionless on prominent branches, power lines, or termitaria, scanning the surrounding terrain for ground-dwelling prey. Once a meal is spotted, they drop down in a swift, steep dive to ambush insects, lizards, and small birds on the ground. During the breeding season, males perform spectacular aerial displays, diving sharply with loud, harsh calls that showcase their vibrant turquoise, purple, and green plumage.
SavannaColorfulAcrobatic
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Grasshoppers
- Beetles
- Lizards
Predators
- Hawks
- Falcons
- Eagles
ThreatsPesticide application, habitat loss
HabitatsSavanna, open woodland, bushveld
Life span8–10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCoraciidae
- SpeciesCoracias caudatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Observation: Look for bright turquoise plumage atop exposed branches or telephone poles along savanna roadways.
- Photography: Position vehicles downwind on safari tracks and wait as birds routinely return to their primary perch.
- Nesting Etiquette: Give tree cavities a wide berth during spring breeding, as nesting pairs aggressively defend their nests.
Close Relative Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE / CC BY-SA 2.0 · cc-by-sa
Family Kin Close Relative
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