Bannerman's turaco

Bannerman's turaco, an endangered bird endemic to Cameroon, is notable for its distinct appearance and resonant calls. Named after ornithologist David Armitage Bannerman, this bird is a close relative of the red-crested and white-crested turacos. It resides in the lush, montane forests of the Bamenda Highlands and Massif du Mbam.

First described by George Latimer Bates in 1923, Bannerman's turaco is easily recognizable. It features a grey head, a vivid orange-red crown, dark green upper parts, lighter green underparts, and a blue tail. Its call, consisting of a series of loud "kow-kow-kow" notes, can be heard from a considerable distance, although the bird itself is elusive and rarely sighted.

Unfortunately, Bannerman's turaco faces significant threats from habitat destruction. Wildfires, land clearing for agriculture, timber harvesting, and hunting for ceremonial purposes have all had a detrimental impact. With an estimated population ranging from just 2,500 to 10,000 individuals, its numbers are steadily declining. Due to these challenges, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified Bannerman's turaco as an endangered species.