Purple Roller
With the Purple Roller (Coracias naevia) I will finish my short series on rollers (see here and here). This bird has a wide geographic range in sub-Saharan Africa: it can be found from the Sahel region as far south as Namibia. Its coat is comparatively dull with a brown to slightly violet colour, but prominent white streaks at the front. This way, it can be identified relatively easily. Apart from its appearance, the species shares the habits of other members of the roller family: perching on trees and preying on insects is its main occupation.
I have photographed these birds during a visit to Namibia in February 2007. I’d love to be there again right now!!
Purple Roller
Matt Travels 