Purple-crested Turaco (Gallirex porphyreolophus)
Illusive to photographers, very distinctive bird call in my garden gave a rare treat one morning able to glimpse him out in the open, we typically call this a purple crested loerie/lourie, an endemic bird to Sub-Saharan Africa.
Many varieties found in the bush throughout Africa hosting twenty-three varieties all differ in size, shapes, calls and colours, of which seventeen in exotically dressed colourful plumage. Dense woodlands with fruit, berries, buds foraging high in the canopy of forest or bushy trees is where they spend most of their time.
This visitor I managed to capture sitting on the Sausage Tree (Kigelia africana) still an immature tree considering the size they entually are able to reach. Photo of early seasonal flowering on this sixteen year old tree in wrinkled maroon, crimson, burgandy dark red trumpet shaped flowers.
Tree conveniently in the open over my garden fence, what charm, I would not have managed to capture this enchanting lourie moving around.
These agile birds move through the tree tops at exceptional speed, you hear them, seldom see them as they blend into nature exceptionally well. Living in suburban gardens is relatively new with humans encroaching on natural green spaces, these birds will live close to water only coming down for the occasional drink when the coast is clear.
Spring into early summer the lourie vocalize moving between different trees, perch for a short stop frequently during daylight hours.
Found along our eastern regions northward into serveral eastern or central countries on the continent. National bird of Swaziland/eSwatini, crimson flight feathers are used in ceremonial regalia of the royal family.
Truly a magnificent medium sized bird with metallic purple above flashing scarlet red wings beneath, green and russet browns in-between, beauty in nature is there for the eye to behold.
Thanks for visiting birds Two Birds in feathered friends photography, entry to #SMAP No. 95 Contest with host @nelinoeva Free Theme
Feathered Friends Community gratitude to @melinda010100 for sponsoring the contest. Our talented artist @barbara-orenya for on-going creative support.
All photography is my own. Any queries or requests please drop a comment below or make contact with me, have a wonderful day! Photography without tripod, go with the flow wherever life takes you. NB: Amateur photographer and bird watcher, keep smiling!
Thought for Today: "A butterfly thinks itself a bird because it can fly." - African Proverb
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