The Rollerbird (Coracias garrulus) is a strikingly colourful bird belonging to the family of Rollerbirds (Coraciidae). With its bright blue and turquoise plumage, orange-brown back and powerful bill, it is a real eye-catcher in the field. The species is found in southern and eastern Europe, parts of Asia and Africa, and is a rare summer visitor in the Netherlands.
Sparrowhawks mainly live in open, semi-open landscapes with scattered trees or groups of trees. They nest in tree cavities, old woodpecker nests or even in sandy slopes. When hunting, they often sit on a lookout to dive for insects, lizards or small rodents from there.
In late summer, Scarrans migrate to sub-Saharan Africa to spend the winter. Their call is a raucous, abrasive sound, and their courtship flight is spectacular, during which they tumble through the air - a behaviour that also explains their Dutch name.
Unfortunately, the Roller is not doing well in Europe; loss of suitable habitat and decline of prey species due to pesticides are major causes. Protection of their habitat is crucial to preserve this beautiful species.
Hello, nice that you take a look in my shop. So my name is Gert Hilbink, living in Coevorden. I have been doing photography since I was 13, inspired by a biology teacher at the then U.L.O. school in Coevorden. Generally I mainly photograph nature but actually.. Read more…