European Roller

The European roller, Coracias garrulus, is a bird of arresting beauty, the only member of its family to grace the European continent with its presence. It is a stocky bird, comparable in size to the Eurasian jay, measuring 29–32 cm in length with a wingspan of 52–58 cm. The plumage is predominantly a vivid blue, with an orange-brown back, making it a sight to behold as it takes to the skies.

Identification Tips

In flight, the European roller is unmistakable. Its brilliant blue plumage contrasts sharply with the black flight feathers. Both sexes are similar in appearance, while juveniles are somewhat less colorful. When perched, its hooked bill and robust body are notable.

Habitat

The European roller favors warm, dry, and open country with scattered trees. It thrives in lowlands but can be found up to 1,000 m in Europe and 2,000 m in Morocco. Ideal breeding habitats include oak and pine woodlands with open areas, as well as farms and orchards.

Distribution

This species has a broad range, extending from northern Africa through southern and east-central Europe, into the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Maghreb. Its distribution once spanned further across Europe, but has seen a decline in the north and west.

Behaviour

The European roller is a solitary bird, often seen perched conspicuously as it scans for prey. It is known for its acrobatic flight during courtship displays, which include a variety of twists and turns.

Song & Calls

The call of the European roller is a harsh, crow-like sound, particularly when the bird feels threatened. It emits a raucous series of calls that can be quite jarring to the listener.

Breeding

Nesting typically occurs in tree holes, with both sexes sharing incubation duties, though the female takes on the majority of this task. The clutch consists of 2 to 6 white eggs, and the young are cared for by both parents. Fledglings leave the nest after about 26 to 27 days.

Similar Species

The European roller is similar in appearance and behavior to the Abyssinian roller, and these two, along with the lilac-breasted roller, have been considered to form subspecies.

Diet and Feeding

The European roller is a sit-and-wait predator, often perching in the open as it looks for large insects, small reptiles, rodents, and frogs. Adult rollers favor beetles, while nestlings consume mostly Orthoptera, such as grasshoppers and bush crickets.

Conservation status

The European roller is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, there have been significant population declines across much of its range, with the European population decreasing by 25 percent between 1990 and 2000. Threats include hunting during migration and habitat loss due to agricultural practices. Conservation efforts include providing nest boxes and restoring foraging habitats.