European Roller

Coracias temminckii

The European Roller is a striking bird with a vibrant blue body, chestnut head, and a distinctive rolling flight pattern. These birds are known for their acrobatic displays during courtship, where they perform aerial somersaults and twists. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of flying insects caught in mid-air. European Rollers are found in open landscapes with scattered trees and shrubs, often near grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas. They are known for their long-distance migrations, traveling between breeding grounds in Europe and wintering areas in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite facing threats from habitat loss and hunting, the European Roller is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Open landscapes with scattered trees and shrubs