Turacos

Turacos, plantain-eaters, and go-away-birds, collectively known as Musophagidae or colloquially as loeries in southern Africa, are a family of medium-sized, primarily frugivorous birds endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. These arboreal birds showcase a distinctive semi-zygodactylous foot structure allowing their outer toe to rotate forward or backward, aiding their movement in trees. Turacos are particularly notable for their brilliant green and red feathers, colored by unique pigments known as turacoverdin and turacin—unlike other birds, whose green hues result from a combination of yellow pigments and feather structure, and reds usually come from carotenoids. While their round wings and long tails suggest strong flying abilities, they are, in fact, weak fliers and better suited for running and climbing, with some juveniles possessing wing claws to help them climb. They are sociable creatures, moving in groups, and known for their loud calls, especially the go-away-birds whose calls warn other species of danger. Although closely related to cuckoos in the past, recent genetic analyses support their standing as a separate order, Musophagiformes. The family's evolutionary history dates back to at least the Oligocene epoch, with fossils found in Europe suggesting a gradual southward shift to their current range in Africa. In captivity, they've proven to be long-lived, reaching ages of up to 37 years, contrasting with the limited knowledge on their lifespan in the wild. Members of the Musophagidae family are involved in various interactions with humans; their feathers are valued in many African cultures, and they have a historical culinary appeal to some. Despite being non-migratory, turacos can be spotted outside their native range as escapees from captivity. The current taxonomy includes several genera and species, with new phylogenetic studies prompting revisions and better understanding of their classification. This guide is intended to assist birdwatchers in identifying these birds, as well as to encourage further study and appreciation for the Musophagidae, whose distinctive characteristics and behaviors contribute to the rich biodiversity of the avian world.