Birds
File:Coracias naevius dist.jpg

Purple Roller

Purple Roller

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Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Rufous-crowned Roller is a large, sturdy roller characterized by its dull brownish plumage with a rufous crown, contrasting with bright blue wings and rump. It is a less colorful but equally engaging species.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Somalia and South Africa. It inhabits dry savannas, open woodlands, thorny scrub, and semi-arid areas.
How to spot
Look for its relatively dull body plumage but watch for its brilliant blue wings and tail flashes in flight. It often perches on prominent dead branches or poles, surveying the ground for prey. Listen for its characteristic croaking or cackling calls.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, often perched conspicuously. It is a resident species, observable year-round.
File:Coracias naevius dist.jpg
File:Day 64 Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (53347980232).jpg
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (51134833646).jpg
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (6026080292).jpg
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (6026101334).jpg
File:Purple roller, Coracias naevius, in the Punda Maria area, Kruger National Park, South Africa (22022681995).jpg
File:Purple roller, Coracias naevius, in the Punda Maria area, Kruger National Park, South Africa (26391364903).jpg
File:Purple roller (Coracias naevius mosambicus).jpg
File:Purple roller (Coracias naevius mosambicus) Kruger.jpg
File:Coracias naevius dist.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Day 64 Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (53347980232).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (51134833646).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (6026080292).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple Roller (Coracias naevius) (6026101334).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple roller, Coracias naevius, in the Punda Maria area, Kruger National Park, South Africa (22022681995).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple roller, Coracias naevius, in the Punda Maria area, Kruger National Park, South Africa (26391364903).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple roller (Coracias naevius mosambicus).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Purple roller (Coracias naevius mosambicus) Kruger.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Unlike its more colorful relatives, the Rufous-crowned Roller often blends remarkably well with its savanna and woodland surroundings, making its vibrant wing flashes in flight even more striking.
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