The African Hoopoe (Upupa African) is one of the prettiest birds and are easily recognised around the lodge. The beautiful cinnamon colour of the upper body leads to a distinctive crown of feathers. The black and white barring on the wings and tail are conspicuos in flight. The short grass and bare patch at the bottom of the Idwala valley is ideal terroritory for the Hoopoe where insects and worms can be caught.
The Hoopoe’s long, slight de-curved bill is perfectly suited for this task. The call is a melodic trisyllabic “oop-oop-oop”. They like to nest in a tree or a wall but will not make their own hole. The Hoopoe is related to the kingfishers, bee-eaters and rollers. The Hoopoe is not a social bird and will be found singularly or in pairs. The Hoopoe is a small bird and only measures 25cm.
Keep your eyes out for the African Hoopoe next time you visit!
Photo by Philip
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