GREEN WOODHOOPOE
Phoeniculus purpureus
DESCRIPTION
The Green Woodhoopoe is a striking bird known for its vibrant green plumage with a metallic sheen. It has a long, curved bill and a distinctive tail that is often held upright. This species is highly social, often found in small groups, and is known for its loud, chattering calls that echo through its forest habitat.
FUN FACTS
- Green Woodhoopoes are known for their unique social structure, where they often help raise each other's young within the group, showcasing a high level of cooperation
- | Their vibrant coloration is not just for show; it plays a role in their social interactions, as brighter individuals may be more attractive to mates and more dominant in social hierarchies
QUICK INFO
Lifespanup to 10 years in the wild
Average Weight100-150 g
Average Length30-35 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuregroup — they live in small family groups that work together to forage and defend their territory.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- Green Woodhoopoes inhabit wooded areas, particularly in savannas and open forests. They prefer habitats with plenty of trees for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- This species is native to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in regions from Senegal to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda
- Diet
- The Green Woodhoopoe primarily feeds on insects, including beetles and ants, as well as other small invertebrates. It forages on the ground and in trees, using its bill to probe into crevices.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- group — they live in small family groups that work together to forage and defend their territory.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-12
- Territorial
- 1
LC
DD
100-150 g
Weight
30-35 cm
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with a metallic sheen, black wings and tail
- Lifespan
- up to 10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Green Woodhoopoes is currently stable, with no major declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion poses a threat to their populations. However, they are generally adaptable and can thrive in modified habitats.
- Predators
- snakes, raptors, and larger mammals may prey on Green Woodhoopoes, especially when they are on the ground.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often use their loud calls to warn each other of approaching threats and can be quite aggressive in defending their territory.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon