Green Woodhoopoe Bird Details
Phoeniculus purpureus
Green Woodhoopoe
Hara Woodhoopoe
John Frederick Miller, 1784
Bucerotiformes (HOOPOES and HORNBILLS)
Phoeniculidae
Phoeniculus
Sub-Saharan Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Malawi, Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon.
Appearance :
Green Woodhoopoes are medium-sized birds with distinctive green plumage, long black bills, and a prominent crest on their heads.
Behaviour :
They are social birds often found in small groups or family units. They forage actively in trees for insects and other small prey.
Habitat :
They inhabit woodland, savanna, and forest edges, preferring areas with abundant trees and vegetation.
Diet :
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, caterpillars, and other small invertebrates. They may also consume fruits and occasionally nectar.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Found in sub-Saharan Africa, including countries like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zambia.
Population Size :
Population size can vary regionally.
Life Span :
Live up to 10 years or more.
Body And Tarsus:
The Green Woodhoopoe has a distinctive green plumage with a purple gloss, particularly noticeable on the wings and tail. Tarsus Length typically described in millimeters; exact measurement can vary based on the specimen.
Head And Bill :
The head is adorned with a small crest. The bill is long and slightly curved, characteristic of its woodpecker-like feeding behavior.
Length :
Around 30-36 centimeters (12-14 inches).
Neck :
Moderately long neck, typical for a woodhoopoe.
Size :
Medium-sized bird.
Tail Details :
The tail is long and graduated, aiding in balance during climbing.
Weight :
Between 70-90 grams.
Wing :
Broad and rounded wings, suitable for agile flight in forests.
Wing Span :
Approximately 50-60 centimeters (20-24 inches).
Facial Feature :
Prominent features include a long, slender bill and a distinctive facial pattern.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Builds a cavity nest in tree trunks or branches.
- Nest Material: The nest is made up of grass, leaves, and feathers.
Breeding Season :
Generally breeds during the wet season.
Nesting Season :
Typically nests during the spring and summer months.
Egg Color :
Usually white or creamy-white with sometimes light brown speckles.
Egg Length :
Approximately 25-30 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
Approximately 17-20 mm. Each egg weighs around 5-8 grams.
Clutch Size :
Typically lays 2-4 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Single brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
About 18-20 days.
Nestling Period :
About 4 weeks before fledging.
Vocalization :
Known for a variety of vocalizations including loud calls and chattering sounds.
Sex Demorphism :
Minor differences in size or plumage intensity.
Migration Details :
Generally non-migratory birds.
