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Wednesday, July 15, 2015

African Hoopoe

Although we're in the middle of winter here in South Africa, there are still several birds in our garden. One bird which is feeding on our winter - read dried - lawn, is the African Hoopoe.
African Hoopoe (female) 

The African Hoopoe is conspicuous and unlikely to be confused with any other species. The crest is usually held flattened (as above) forming a long point behind the crown. and only raised when the bird lands, displays or is alarmed.

The female is duller rufous than the male and slightly greyer on the face and breast as can be seen above. The African Hoopoe eats insects and their larvae, earthworms, small frogs, snakes, lizards and termites. 

Its call is a soft low hoo-hoo; hoo-hoo.

I'm linking to Wild Bird Wednesday here 






6 comments:

  1. Oh, what a handsome bird!! Love your captures -- as always!! Hope your week is going well, Jo!! Enjoy!!

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  2. Always a lovely bird to see and it is great that it comes to your garden. I never knew there was a difference between the M & F bird.

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  3. Never have seen a bird like this !

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  4. Hello Jo, I just love this cool looking bird. You are lucky to have the Hoopoe in your garden! Great shots, enjoy your day!

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  5. new bird for me, he is really a cool bird... strange and beautiful. one sweet baby on your other post, i was having trouble commenting

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Thank you for visiting my blog and taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate your feedback. Jo