A stunning Afro-Palearctic migrant sporting distinctive turquoise, blue, rusty-orange and blackish plumage may currently be seen on Sibuya, perched motionless ‘spotting’, or on the hunt swooping low on unsuspecting prey. It’s always a thrill to spot these gorgeous irregular visitors!
This remarkable medium-sized bird – the European Roller (Coracias Garrulus) – flies approximately 10,000 km annually on an amazing journey to reach South Africa between November and March for summer – thus avoiding the harsh winters of Europe and Asia. They migrate between sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia and Europe – a remarkable and hazardous journey, especially now with shrinking habitat, global warming and resulting unpredictable weather patterns.
Fun facts
- Named ‘Rollers’ because of their spectacular aerobatic displays during courting – somersaults, impressive dives and antics which are very attractive to potential mates!
- Lifespan is approximately 10 years
- They eat insects, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians using the ‘sit-and-wait technique’ to catch their prey
- Non-breeding in South Africa. Breeds in Europe, Middle East and Asia
- Cavities in trees and holes made in sandy banks by other birds are ideal nesting sites
- They lay up to 6 white eggs and the chicks fledge in about a month
- To deter predators if threatened, a chick will vomit a foul-smelling orange liquid onto itself. The stench also warns parents of danger
- Generally silent in South Africa but on occasion – a not very attractive ‘Raak’
- In certain countries this beautiful bird is considered ‘Near Threatened’ because of the dramatic fall in numbers.
Fitted with a tracker to monitor the fantastic journey of this European Roller…
A map showing some of this remarkable European Roller’s migration routes. One variation of its name… Eurasian Roller…was not gained lightly!
