Upupa epops africana

(Bechstein, 1811)

Vernacular names
English : Eurasian hoopoe
French : Huppe fasciée

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Bucerotiformes
Family : Upupidae
Notes : 7 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a total length of 32 cm for a weight of 89 g. Unmistakable species within its range. Long and thin decurved bill. Erectile crest with black tips. Beige plumage (deep rufous for this subspecies). Wings broadly striped black and white.

Range and habitat
This subspecies occurs in central Africa, from DR Congo to Kenya and north South Africa. Species also occurs in most of Africa and south Asia. Lives in open and dry woodlands, grasslands, steppe and savanna, to 4400 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : This species is still common but many populations, especially in Europe, are declining because of hunting and habitat loss. The species is protected.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation
Jurong Bird Park (Singapore)

 

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