A charismatic bird species native to the old-world regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Known for their stocky build and vibrant plumage, these blue birds with orange-brown backs are a sight to behold in the dry, warm, open woodlands they call home.
Characterized by their hooked bills and brightly colored feathers, European rollers are often admired for their striking appearance. They typically nest in natural tree holes, where they raise a single brood each year. Both males and females play active roles in caring for their young, which fledge after approximately 27 days of hatching. An intriguing defense mechanism employed by the chicks involves spitting a foul-smelling orange liquid on themselves, deterring potential predators and increasing their chances of survival.
In addition to their distinctive appearance and nesting habits, European rollers are known for their vocalizations, which include a harsh crow-like sound. They are opportunistic feeders, preying on a variety of creatures including insects, reptiles, and rodents. This diverse diet contributes to their adaptability and success in various habitats.
However, the European roller is not without its challenges. The species serves as a host for the parasite Moniliformis gracilis, which can negatively impact their health and reproductive success. Additionally, habitat loss and degradation pose significant threats to their populations in certain regions.
In recognition of these conservation concerns, the European roller was initially classified as “Near Threatened” in 2005. However, subsequent assessments have downlisted the species to “Least Concern,” indicating that their populations are relatively stable on a global scale. Nevertheless, continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term survival of this iconic bird species.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Angola
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Belarus
Belgium
Benin
Bosnia And Herz.
Botswana
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central Af. Rep.
Chad
China
Comoros
Congo-Brazzaville
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Côte D’ivoire
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Denmark
Djibouti
Egypt
Eritrea
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Faroe Islands
Finland
France
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Greece
Guinea-Bissau
Hungary
Iceland
India
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malawi
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Moldova
Montenegro
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Netherlands
Niger
Nigeria
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Slovakia
Slovenia
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Spain
Sudan
Sweden
Official estimate
Switzerland
Syria
São Tomé & Príncipe
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Togo
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UAE
Uganda
Ukraine
United Kingdom
Uzbekistan
Yemen
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic / Monomorphic (size)
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
