Blue-bellied roller in exhibit

Blue-bellied Roller

Scientific Name
Coracias cyanogaster
Geographic Range
Central and western Africa
Diet
Grasshoppers and other large insects
Blue-bellied roller in exhibit Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern Endangered Status Graph - Least Concern

About This Animal

Blue-bellied rollers are small, stocky birds named for their royal blue abdomens. Males and females look familiar, with a tan head and neck, dark and light blue feathers on their wings, and black eyes.

The birds are social, usually seen in pairs or trios with other small groups nearby, although they may live in clusters of up to 20 individuals. They’re named for their acrobatic abilities in the air as they hunt for food.

They use elaborate courtship displays to attract mates, including fast rolling, diving chases and loud vocalizing. As cavity nesters, blue-belled rollers build nests high off the ground and lay two to four eggs per clutch, which are then incubated for 22 to 24 days. Both parents help rear their chicks, which become independent by 40 days old.

Reportedly, blue-bellied rollers are common a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wetlands. However, their population is decreasing due to deforestation.

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Species Survival Plan®

We cooperate with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to manage the zoo population of this species through a Species Survival Plan®.

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