Lilac-breasted Roller
The Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus) is another member of the roller family. It occurs in southern and eastern Africa and is quite similar to the Abyssinian Roller (Coracias abyssinicus), however, the ranges of both species overlap only in a small zone in Ethiopia. In addition, the violet patch on the breast of the bird is a distinct difference to the blue coat of the Abyssinian Roller.
The Lilac-breasted Roller is a very common bird and can often be seen perching on top of trees. Due to its colourful feathers and its abundance throughout its range, it became the national bird of Botswana and Kenya. I took the photographs in this post during a visit to the Etosha National Park, Namibia, in February 2007.
on a rainy day
perching on a tree…
…waiting for prey
Matt Travels 
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Like the colors, pretty bird.
thanks for the comment! You’re right, it’s a very beautiful bird!!
Such a beautiful little bird, love the colours.
Love the lilac breasted rollers..they are such pretty birds. I have seen a couple of the in Tanzania.
oh, I have never been to Tanzania – but that’s definitely on the list… some day… *sigh*
Please don’t get me started on destinations again. I am bad influence.
sometimes these influences are the best! 😉
Maybe if you want to be a wanderer for life. I can go on for hours about traveling. Really, I am relentless
then I feel I need to become a listener – not a wanderer! 😉
Oh yeah..that’s there..both qualities can easily be rolled into 1..makes traveling more fun.
well well – then sponsor me please and I will travel open-end!! 😉
Wishful thinking. But the thought is there, so that you know.