Bird

Lilac breasted Roller Sightings

Coracias caudatus

Least ConcernPrey speciesFound in 3 parks

Want to know where and when to find Lilac breasted Roller? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.

Where to see Lilac breasted Roller in South Africa

About the Lilac breasted Roller

The lilac-breasted roller is one of Africa's most colourful birds, recognised by its lilac breast, turquoise-blue wings and head, brown back and long tail streamers. It is commonly found in open woodland, savanna and grassland with scattered trees. It hunts mainly from exposed perches, dropping to the ground to catch insects, reptiles, frogs and small mammals. It is usually solitary or found in pairs and is often seen performing spectacular aerial displays during territorial or courtship behaviour.

How to identify the Lilac breasted Roller

Striking medium-sized bird with a bright lilac-blue breast and wings, turquoise crown and back, greenish-blue tail and reddish-brown back. The two elongated central tail feathers are particularly distinctive.

Did you know?

Lilac-breasted Rollers perform spectacular aerial displays during courtship and territorial defence, including rolling and tumbling manoeuvres.

Also known as: Gewone Troupant, Roller

Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Lilac breasted Roller, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.