Senegal Roller

Senegal Roller

We are delighted that the Lehmann family has become a sponsor of the Senegal Roller.

The Senegal blackbird(Coracias abyssinicus) is a common member of the blackbird family (Coraciidae) in the savannahs and dry forests of Africa. Its range extends from Senegal and the Ivory Coast in the west to Ethiopia in the far east of the African continent.

When fully grown, the Senegal Roller grows to between 28 cm and 31 cm. It is characterised by its strikingly elongated tail feathers and colourful brown and light blue plumage.

Like most birds, the Senegal Roller feeds mainly on insects and other invertebrates that it catches on the ground and in flight. These mainly include very large insects such as grasshoppers, crickets and beetles. The prey is first spotted from a higher perch before a dive is made. The insects caught are either eaten on the spot or brought back to the hide.

The Senegal Roller is highly territorial and strictly monogamous. It defends its territory from intruders with shrill calls and swooping flights. It lays its eggs in tree hollows or old termite mounds which it lines with leaves and branches beforehand. Near urban areas, crevices in walls and attics are also used. A clutch consists of 3 to 6 round, white eggs.

Unlike many other African birds, the Senegal Roller is not endangered because it has learnt to use the areas colonised by humans.