Violet turaco

The violet turaco, also known as the violaceous plantain-eater, is a stunning bird native to Africa. Measuring about 48 cm in length, this bird boasts glossy violet feathers, a distinctive yellow forehead, a chestnut-colored crown, and white patches around its ears.

Their diet is quite varied and includes fruits, figs, leaves, buds, flowers, insects, snails, and slugs. Among their most striking features are their red primary flight feathers, which are easily recognizable.

You can find these birds across West Africa, inhabiting diverse environments such as savannas, wetlands, woodlands, and forests.

Regarding reproduction, the female violet turaco typically lays two eggs in a rather flimsy tree nest. Interestingly, these birds exhibit cooperative breeding behaviors, particularly in captivity. They are social creatures, often seen in flocks of ten to twelve, and are known for their loud "cooroo-cooroo" call.

Although they are relatively common in some areas, violet turacos face threats from trapping for the pet trade, especially in countries like Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Ghana. While they aren't strong fliers, they are adept at moving swiftly through tree branches.