The lilac-breasted roller is one of the most photographed birds in East Africa. It perches on lookouts to spot insects and lizards, then swoops down. It performs tumbling display flights in the breeding season.
Rollers
Lilac-breasted Roller
Coracias caudatus
A brilliant, multicoloured bird that perches on bushes along the roadside.
Size
~ 36 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Diet
Insects, lizards and small animals.
Habitat
Open savannah with scattered trees.
About the lilac-breasted roller
Did you know?
01
The name comes from the aerial "rolling" display.
02
It is the national bird of Kenya and Botswana.
03
It uses fire and smoke plumes to find escaping insects.
When to see it
Seen all year round; the best sightings depend on where you are.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Trips that go there
Where to meet the lilac-breasted roller
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