Lilac-breasted Roller

African birds · aerial acrobats · savanna · colorful

Rainbow colors. The lilac-breasted roller has a bright lilac (purple) breast and chest, along with emerald green, turquoise, and orange feathers that make it one of Africa's most beautiful birds.

High perch hunters. These birds sit at the very tops of trees and poles, watching the ground far below for insects, small amphibians, and baby birds to catch.

Diving show-off. During breeding season, male lilac-breasted rollers zoom high into the air and then plunge downward in dramatic swoops and dives while making loud, harsh calls.

Fierce parents. Both parents guard their tree nest eggs so fiercely that they will actually attack and chase away raptors and other large birds to protect their 2 to 4 babies.

Kenya's unofficial symbol. This spectacular bird is so special that people consider it the unofficial national bird of Kenya.