Broad-billed Roller

The Broad-billed Roller, Eurystomus glaucurus, presents a delightful palette of colors, measuring 29-30 cm in length. It boasts a warm-toned back and head, a lilac foreneck and breast, and a predominantly brown plumage. The species is distinguished by its bright yellow, broad bill. Both sexes are similar in appearance, while the juvenile is a more subdued version of the adult, with a paler breast.

Identification Tips

In flight, the Broad-billed Roller is unmistakable, displaying a strong and direct flight pattern. The brilliant blues of the wings and tail create a striking contrast against the brown back, making it a spectacle when observed in motion.

Habitat

This species favors open woodlands adorned with tall trees, showing a preference for areas in proximity to water. The Broad-billed Roller often perches conspicuously on trees, posts, or overhead wires, reminiscent of giant shrikes in their stature and poise.

Distribution

The Broad-billed Roller is a widespread resident across tropical Africa and Madagascar, avoiding only the most arid regions. It is a migratory bird, moving from the northern and southern extents of its range towards the equatorial belt during the dry season.

Behaviour

Most of the day, the Broad-billed Roller remains inactive, save for the occasional defense of its territory. However, as the afternoon wanes, they become more active, often congregating in groups of up to 100 to feed on swarming ants and termites. They exhibit a unique drinking behavior, skimming water surfaces with their bills while in flight.

Song & Calls

The vocalization of the Broad-billed Roller is a distinctive snarling sound, described as a "k-k-k-k-k-r-r-r-r-r," which can be heard during its aerial displays.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in tree cavities, where the Broad-billed Roller nests in an unlined hole and lays a clutch of 2-3 eggs.

Similar Species

While unique in its broad bill and coloration, the Broad-billed Roller may be confused with other roller species. However, its flight pattern and calls are good distinguishing features.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Broad-billed Roller primarily consists of ants and termites, which they catch in flight during their late afternoon foraging sessions.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Broad-billed Roller as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.