Eurystomus gularis
The Blue-throated Roller (*Eurystomus gularis*) is a captivating member of the Coraciidae family, known for its striking plumage and acrobatic aerial hunting in the dense rainforests of West and Central Africa. Measuring approximately 25-30 cm (10-12 inches) in length, this stout-bodied bird is characterized by a deep, iridescent blue throat that contrasts sharply with its purplish-brown head and upperparts, and rufous-brown underparts. Its broad, bright yellow or orange bill is a prominent f...
Primarily inhabiting lowland to submontane primary and secondary rainforests, the Blue-throated Roller also frequents forest edges, clearings, and tall trees, typically below 1400 meters in elevation.
The Blue-throated Roller's diet consists almost exclusively of large flying insects, including beetles, cicadas, grasshoppers, moths, and winged ants or termites, all captured in mid-air.
A diurnal and often crepuscular hunter, the Blue-throated Roller exhibits a characteristic "sally-and-return" foraging strategy, perching prominently on an exposed branch before launching into agile flight to capture flying insects. It is typically observed singly or in pairs, though small family...
The Blue-throated Roller is resident across a broad swathe of West and Central Africa, primarily inhabiting the rainforest belt. Its breeding range extends from Sierra Leone and Liberia eastward through southern Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. Further east, it occurs throughout Cameroon, Equator...
Least Concern
- The "Roller" in its name comes from the spectacular, tumbling, and rolling aerial courtship displays performed by many species in the family. - Its remarkably broad, bright yellow-orange bill is an adaptation for its unique hunting style, acting like a net to scoop large insects from the air. -...