African Hoopoe {Upapa Africana}

There is some debate about whether the African Hoopoe and the Eurasian Hoopoe are 2 species or simply subspecies of Upupa epops. In the field they can be distinguished from overall colouration (africana is a richer chestnut) and the absence of a white sub-terminal band on the primaries in the African Hoopoe.

The African Hoopoe isn't a sociable bird and is generally found either singly or in pairs (occasionally small loose flocks are seen during the migration season).

The Hoopoe is a cavity nester which will happily use a hollow in a pile of boulders or cavities in buildings.

Quick Facts

Name: Upapa Africana

Diet Description: Ground feeders, Hoopoe take mainly insects, although they'll also eat small reptiles such as lizards. They use their bill for probing the earth and animal dung. They also turn over leaf litter to find prey. Vegetable matter (seeds or berries) are eaten but in very small quantities.

Habitat: Open and bushy areas.

Distribution: Africa - widely distributed throughout South Africa.

Socialisation: The African Hoopoe isn't a sociable bird and is generally found either singly or in pairs (occasionally small loose flocks are seen during the migration season).

The Hoopoe is a cavity nester which will happily use a hollow in a pile of boulders or cavities in buildings.