Abyssinian Roller

The Abyssinian roller, also known as the Senegal roller, is a bird of considerable size, comparable to a jackdaw, measuring 28–30 cm in length. It boasts a warm brown dorsal plumage, while the majority of its feathers exhibit various shades of blue. Notably, adults are adorned with tail streamers that extend an impressive 12 cm. Both sexes share a similar appearance, though juveniles present a more subdued version of the adult's coloration.

Identification Tips

In flight, the Abyssinian roller is a spectacle to behold, with its striking blue wings contrasting sharply against its brown back. The elongated tail streamers are particularly eye-catching as they trail behind. When identifying this species, look for its robust, direct flight pattern and listen for its distinctive calls, which include a harsh, crow-like "gak" or a screeched "aaaargh."

Habitat

This roller favors warm, open landscapes dotted with trees. It has shown remarkable adaptability, thriving in farmlands and areas of human settlement.

Distribution

The Abyssinian roller is a native resident of tropical Africa, with its range spanning from southern Mauritania and Senegal in the west to Ethiopia, Somalia, and northern Kenya in the east. The species can also be found in the southwestern regions of Saudi Arabia and western Yemen.

Behaviour

The Abyssinian roller is known for its boldness, often perching in prominent positions atop trees, posts, or wires, reminiscent of a giant shrike. It feeds on large insects and small rodents, and is known to bravely dash into the smoke of forest fires in pursuit of disturbed invertebrates. Intruders are met with daring dives and rolls, a testament to the bird's fearless nature. Its breeding display is reminiscent of a lapwing, full of dramatic twists and turns that have inspired the name of its family.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Abyssinian roller are quite distinctive, characterized by a harsh "gak" or a screeched "aaaargh," which can be heard during its acrobatic flight displays.

Breeding

Breeding Abyssinian rollers make their nests in sparsely lined cavities within trees or buildings. They lay clutches of three to six eggs, which they fiercely protect and nurture.

Similar Species

While the Abyssinian roller is unique in its appearance, it may be confused with other roller species. However, its size, tail streamers, and particular coloration help distinguish it from its relatives.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Abyssinian roller primarily consists of large insects and small rodents. It is an opportunistic feeder, often seen hunting in open areas or even taking advantage of the chaos caused by forest fires to capture prey.

Conservation status

The Abyssinian roller is currently classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The species appears to be benefiting from the changes in landscape brought about by modern agricultural practices and urbanization, leading to an upward trend in its population.