Birds
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 1.jpg

Racket-tailed Roller

Racket-tailed Roller

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Spotted
The Racquet-tailed Roller is a unique and elegant species, distinguished by its brilliant blue and purple plumage and the two elongated outer tail feathers ending in bare shafts and small 'racquets'.
Where to spot
Found in southern Africa, particularly in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It prefers Mopane woodland and other dry woodlands with sandy soils.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive tail racquets and striking blue plumage. It often perches on high branches, scanning the ground for insects. Listen for its harsh, chattering calls.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, often seen perched conspicuously. It is a resident species, observable year-round.
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 1.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 2.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 3.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 4.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatusPCCA20071227-8449B.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus -San Antonio Zoo, Texas, USA-8a.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus dist.jpg
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 1.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 2.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 3.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatus, southern Mozambique 4.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatusPCCA20071227-8449B.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatus -San Antonio Zoo, Texas, USA-8a.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Coracias spatulatus dist.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The 'racquets' on its tail are not true feathers but modified bare shafts, which are shed and regrown annually, primarily serving as a visual display during courtship.
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