Eurasian Hoopoe

Upupa epops

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Aves · Bucerotiformes · Upupidae

About

The Eurasian hoopoe or common hoopoe is the most widespread species of the genus Upupa. It is a distinctive cinnamon coloured bird with black and white wings, a tall erectile crest, a broad white band across a black tail, and a long narrow downcurved bill. Its call is a soft "oop-oop-oop".

Fun Fact

Eurasian hoopoes defend their nests with a foul-smelling secretion from their preen gland that smells like rotting meat — chicks can also spray liquid faeces at intruders with remarkable accuracy.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Open farmland and parkland

Diet

Insectivore

Lifespan

5-10 years

Threats

Climate Change
Disease

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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