Purple birds are among the most stunning and unique creatures in the avian world, displaying a mesmerizing range of violet, lavender, and deep plum hues. From iridescent songbirds to exotic tropical species, these birds captivate birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Their striking coloration often serves as a form of camouflage, courtship display, or even a warning to predators. Whether shimmering in the sunlight or blending into their surroundings, purple birds add a touch of brilliance to forests, wetlands, and open landscapes worldwide.
In this guide, we will explore 56 types of purple birds, each with its own distinctive characteristics, habitat, and identification features. Some, like the Purple Starling and Violet-Backed Starling, showcase dazzling metallic plumage, while others, such as the Purple Honeycreeper and Varied Bunting, display softer shades of violet and blue. Many of these birds thrive in tropical regions, but some can also be found in temperate climates, making them a fascinating subject for birdwatchers across the globe.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or simply curious about these vibrant species, this comprehensive list will introduce you to the world of purple birds. Along with descriptions and stunning pictures, you’ll learn about their behaviors, diets, and preferred habitats. Let’s dive in and discover the beauty of these purple-feathered wonders!
Different Types of Purple Birds
Purple Starling
The Purple Starling (Lamprotornis purpureus) is a striking bird known for its deep, iridescent purple plumage that shimmers under the sunlight. It has a stout body, a short tail, and a sharp black beak. Its bright yellow eyes contrast beautifully with its dark feathers, making it easy to distinguish from other starlings.
This species is native to West and Central Africa, where it inhabits open woodlands, savannas, and forest edges. It is often seen in small flocks, perching on tree branches or foraging on the ground for insects, fruits, and seeds.
Purple Starlings are highly social and vocal birds, frequently communicating through a variety of whistles and chirps. They are also cavity nesters, often using tree hollows to lay their eggs. Their adaptability to different habitats has allowed them to thrive across a wide range.
Purple Honeycreeper
The Purple Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes caeruleus) is a small, vibrant bird with a striking deep blue-purple body and a contrasting bright yellow bill. Males display a more intense coloration, while females are greenish with blue tinges. Its slender, curved bill is perfectly adapted for feeding on nectar from flowers.
This species is found in tropical forests of Central and South America, particularly in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. It prefers humid lowland forests but is also spotted in gardens and plantations where flowering plants are abundant.
Purple Honeycreepers are active, acrobatic birds that move swiftly between tree canopies. They primarily feed on nectar, but their diet also includes fruit and insects. Their energetic nature and high-pitched calls make them a delightful sight in the rainforest.
Purple Martin
The Purple Martin (Progne subis) is the largest swallow in North America, recognized for its glossy dark purple plumage in males, while females have a duller, brownish appearance. These birds have long, tapered wings and a slightly forked tail, which aids in their agile flight.
They breed in North America and migrate to South America during the winter. Preferring open areas near water, they rely heavily on human-provided nest boxes, as natural cavities have become scarce. Purple Martins are colonial nesters, often living in large groups.
These birds are aerial insectivores, catching flying insects midair with incredible precision. Their swift, acrobatic flight and constant chattering calls make them a familiar presence in suburban and rural areas during the breeding season.
Purple Grenadier
The Purple Grenadier (Uraeginthus ianthinogaster) is a small, finch-like bird with a dazzling mix of purple and chestnut plumage. Males exhibit a bright purple body with a rusty-brown face and a red eye-ring, while females have a subtler brownish coloration with hints of blue.
This species is found in dry savannas and scrublands of East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. They prefer open landscapes with scattered bushes and are often seen in pairs or small flocks foraging on the ground for seeds and insects.
Purple Grenadiers have a soft, melodious song that is used for communication and courtship. They are relatively shy birds, often hiding within shrubs when approached. Their striking coloration makes them a favorite among bird enthusiasts and aviculturists.
Purple-Crested Turaco
The Purple-Crested Turaco (Gallirex porphyreolophus) is a medium-sized bird known for its vibrant purple crest, green body, and deep red wings. When in flight, their red primary feathers become highly visible, creating a stunning contrast against the purple plumage.
They are found in woodlands and riverine forests of southeastern Africa, particularly in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. They prefer dense vegetation and spend most of their time foraging for fruit, which makes up the majority of their diet.
These turacos are excellent climbers, using their strong feet and long tail to navigate tree branches. They have a distinctive, repetitive call that echoes through their habitat. As fruit-eating birds, they play an important role in seed dispersal within their ecosystem.
American Purple Gallinule
The American Purple Gallinule (Porphyrio martinicus) is a striking waterbird with iridescent purple-blue plumage, a bright red bill with a yellow tip, and long yellow legs. Its colorful appearance makes it one of the most recognizable members of the rail family.
This species is commonly found in freshwater marshes, swamps, and wetlands throughout the southeastern United States, Central America, and northern South America. It prefers areas with dense aquatic vegetation, where it can walk on floating plants using its long toes.
American Purple Gallinules are opportunistic feeders, consuming a mix of plant matter, small fish, and insects. They are excellent swimmers and can also climb reeds and bushes. Their loud, cackling calls often reveal their presence even when hidden in dense marsh vegetation.
Violet-Backed Starling
The Violet-Backed Starling (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster), also known as the Amethyst Starling, is a small yet striking bird with an iridescent purple back and head, contrasting sharply with its bright white underparts. Males exhibit the most vibrant colors, while females are brownish with streaked underparts.
Native to sub-Saharan Africa, this species inhabits open woodlands, savannas, and forest edges. They are often seen in pairs or small groups, foraging for fruit and insects. During the breeding season, they nest in tree cavities, where they lay a small clutch of eggs.
Violet-Backed Starlings are known for their musical, warbling calls. They are agile fliers and can quickly maneuver between trees. Their striking appearance and charming song make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Purplish Jay
The Purplish Jay (Cyanocorax cyanomelas) is a large, intelligent bird with a rich purplish-blue body, black head, and a long tail. Its slightly curved beak and strong legs make it well-suited for both foraging and climbing.
This species is found in South America, particularly in Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil, where it inhabits dry forests and open woodland areas. It often moves in small, noisy groups, searching for insects, fruit, and small vertebrates.
Like other jays, the Purplish Jay is highly social and intelligent, capable of problem-solving and vocal mimicry. It communicates through a variety of loud calls and is known for its curiosity and adaptability to different environments.
Purplish-Mantled Tanager
The Purplish-Mantled Tanager (Iridosornis porphyrocephalus) is a beautiful bird with deep purple plumage covering its mantle and back, contrasted with a yellow belly and black markings on its wings and head. This coloration makes it one of the most visually striking tanagers.
It is native to the Andean cloud forests of Colombia and Ecuador, where it thrives in humid, high-altitude environments. This species prefers dense foliage and is often seen in mixed-species flocks, moving through the canopy in search of fruit and insects.
Despite its vibrant coloration, the Purplish-Mantled Tanager is relatively elusive, often remaining hidden among leaves. Its soft, high-pitched calls blend into the background of its forested habitat, making it a rewarding sight for patient birdwatchers.
Boat-Tailed Grackle
The Boat-Tailed Grackle (Quiscalus major) is a large, sleek bird with iridescent dark purple-black plumage and a long, keel-shaped tail that gives it its name. Males have a more striking sheen, while females are brownish with less gloss.
This species is found in coastal marshes and wetlands of the southeastern United States. It prefers areas with tall grasses and shallow water, where it forages for insects, small fish, and grains. It often forms large, noisy flocks, especially in roosting areas.
Boat-Tailed Grackles are highly vocal, producing a mix of harsh calls and musical whistles. They are opportunistic feeders and are known for their bold behavior, sometimes scavenging near human settlements. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in both natural and urban environments.
Purple Finch
The Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) is a medium-sized finch with a rosy-purple wash over its head, breast, and back. Males display the most vivid coloration, while females have brown-streaked plumage with a subtle hint of purple.
Native to North America, this species is commonly found in coniferous and mixed forests, as well as gardens and bird feeders. It migrates seasonally, moving southward in the winter. Purple Finches primarily feed on seeds, berries, and insects.
These birds have a pleasant, warbling song that adds to the charm of wooded areas. They are social outside the breeding season and often form mixed flocks with other finch species. Their ability to adapt to changing environments has helped maintain stable populations.
Purple-Breasted Cotinga
The Purple-Breasted Cotinga (Cotinga cotinga) is a spectacular bird with deep purple plumage on its chest, contrasting with bright turquoise-blue wings and back. Males have the most vivid colors, while females are duller brown with faint hints of purple.
This species is found in the Amazon rainforest, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. It prefers tall forest canopies, where it remains perched for long periods, surveying the area for fruit, which makes up the majority of its diet.
Purple-Breasted Cotingas are relatively quiet birds, relying on their brilliant plumage to attract mates rather than vocal displays. They are often seen alone or in pairs, blending into the dense foliage of their tropical habitat.
Varied Bunting
The Varied Bunting (Passerina versicolor) is a small, colorful songbird with striking plumage. Males are adorned with a mix of deep purple, red, and blue hues, while females have more subdued brownish-gray tones. Their conical bills are well-adapted for seed-eating.
This species is primarily found in the arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. It inhabits desert scrub, thorny thickets, and riparian woodlands, where it forages for seeds, berries, and insects.
Varied Buntings are elusive and often stay hidden in dense vegetation, making them a challenge to spot. Their sweet, warbling songs help birdwatchers locate them during the breeding season, when males sing to defend their territories.
Purple Sunbird
The Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) is a small, nectar-feeding bird with an iridescent purple and blue sheen on the males, while females are olive-brown with a yellowish underbelly. During the breeding season, males display the richest purple tones.
Native to South and Southeast Asia, this species thrives in open forests, gardens, and urban areas. It is highly adaptable and often seen hovering around flowers, using its slender, curved bill to extract nectar. It also feeds on insects and small berries.
Purple Sunbirds are highly active and vocal, producing rapid, high-pitched calls. Their tiny nests, intricately woven from plant fibers and spider silk, are suspended from branches, providing a secure place for their young.
Western Violet-Backed Sunbird
The Western Violet-Backed Sunbird (Anthreptes longuemarei) is a strikingly beautiful bird with a shimmering violet back and metallic greenish-blue head, while females display a duller olive-brown coloration. Males become even more vibrant during the breeding season.
This species is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, where it inhabits woodlands, savannas, and gardens. It primarily feeds on nectar but also consumes small insects and spiders. Like other sunbirds, it plays an important role in pollination.
Western Violet-Backed Sunbirds are agile and fast-moving, often darting between flowers. Their high-pitched, melodious songs are frequently heard, especially during courtship displays. They are territorial and will aggressively defend feeding areas from other nectar-feeding birds.
Purple Cochoa
The Purple Cochoa (Cochoa purpurea) is a mysterious and rarely seen bird with a soft, velvety purple sheen on its plumage, contrasted with black wings and a pale blue crown. Its long tail and slightly curved beak add to its elegant appearance.
It inhabits the dense montane forests of the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, where it prefers high-altitude, shaded environments. Due to its secretive nature, it is often heard before being seen, emitting flute-like, melancholic calls.
Purple Cochoas primarily feed on insects, berries, and small fruits. They are solitary or found in pairs, quietly moving through the foliage. Their elusive behavior makes them a prized sighting for birdwatchers exploring highland forests.
Purple-Crowned Fairy Wren
The Purple-Crowned Fairy Wren (Malurus coronatus) is a small, strikingly colored bird with a distinctive purple crown on males, contrasting against their black face and pale blue body. Females are brown with a slightly lighter cap.
Endemic to northern Australia, this species is found in riverine woodlands and dense vegetation along watercourses. It is highly social, living in small family groups that cooperate in raising young and defending territories.
Despite its delicate appearance, the Purple-Crowned Fairy Wren is an energetic forager, constantly moving through shrubs and grasses in search of insects and seeds. During the breeding season, males display their bright crowns to attract mates.
Cape Glossy Starling
The Cape Glossy Starling (Lamprotornis nitens) is a dazzling bird with shimmering blue, green, and purple plumage that changes depending on the light. It has bright yellow eyes that stand out against its iridescent feathers.
This species is widespread in southern Africa, inhabiting open woodlands, savannas, and even urban areas. It is highly adaptable and often seen foraging on the ground for insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
Cape Glossy Starlings are known for their loud, varied calls and social behavior. They frequently gather in flocks, interacting with other bird species. Their intelligence and striking appearance make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
Crinkle-Collared Manucode
The Crinkle-Collared Manucode (Manucodia chalybatus) is a unique bird-of-paradise with glossy, dark purple-blue plumage and an unmistakable crinkled collar of feathers around its neck. It has a long tail and a slightly curved bill, giving it an elegant appearance.
This species is native to the lowland and hill forests of New Guinea. It prefers dense, humid environments where it can blend into the shadows of the canopy while searching for fruits, its primary food source.
Unlike many birds-of-paradise with elaborate courtship displays, the Crinkle-Collared Manucode is monogamous. Mated pairs remain together year-round, defending their territory and nesting high in the trees. Their eerie, flute-like calls can often be heard echoing through the forest.
Purple-Bellied Lory
The Purple-Bellied Lory (Lorius hypoinochrous) is a vibrant parrot species with a deep purple belly, bright green wings, and red markings on the head. Its strong beak and zygodactyl feet help it grasp and manipulate food efficiently.
This species is found in the lowland forests of the Solomon Islands, where it thrives in tropical environments. It primarily feeds on nectar, fruits, and seeds, often visiting flowering trees in noisy flocks.
Purple-Bellied Lories are highly social birds with a loud, chattering call. They are known for their playful and curious nature, frequently interacting with each other while foraging or resting in the canopy. Their stunning colors make them a sought-after sight for birdwatchers.
Purple-Backed Thornbill
The Purple-Backed Thornbill (Ramphomicron microrhynchum) is a tiny hummingbird with iridescent purple plumage on its back, a short, straight bill, and a distinctive white patch on its lower back. Males have more vibrant colors than females, which are predominantly green.
This species inhabits high-altitude cloud forests in the Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It prefers montane forests with abundant flowering plants, where it feeds on nectar and small insects.
Despite its small size, the Purple-Backed Thornbill is aggressive when defending feeding territories. It is known for its rapid, darting flight and ability to hover effortlessly while feeding. Its quiet nature and preference for dense vegetation make it a challenging bird to spot.
Violet Sabrewing
The Violet Sabrewing (Campylopterus hemileucurus) is a large, stunning hummingbird with deep violet plumage, a curved bill, and striking white patches on its tail. Males display more intense coloration than females, who have a mix of green and purple tones.
This species is found in the cloud forests of Central America, from Mexico to Panama. It thrives in humid, mountainous regions where it visits a variety of flowering plants to feed on nectar. It also consumes small insects for added protein.
Violet Sabrewings are territorial and will aggressively chase away other hummingbirds from their favorite feeding spots. Their rapid wingbeats and energetic flight patterns make them fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.
Crowned Woodnymph
The Crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica) is a dazzling hummingbird with an iridescent green body, deep purple underparts, and a shimmering violet-blue crown. Its delicate appearance is complemented by rapid, agile flight.
This species is widespread in the rainforests of Central and South America, particularly in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama. It prefers lowland and foothill forests, where it flits among flowers collecting nectar.
Crowned Woodnymphs are solitary birds, except during breeding when males perform intricate aerial displays to attract females. Their high-pitched calls and constant motion make them a lively presence in the forest canopy.
Hartlaub’s Turaco
Hartlaub’s Turaco (Tauraco hartlaubi) is a medium-sized bird with a striking combination of deep green, blue, and purple plumage. It has a short, red-tipped crest, bright yellow eye markings, and red flight feathers that are visible in flight.
Native to the montane forests of East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, this species prefers dense, humid woodlands. It primarily feeds on fruits but will also consume flowers, leaves, and insects.
Hartlaub’s Turacos are known for their loud, cackling calls that echo through the forests. They are agile climbers, using their strong feet to move through trees in search of food. Their stunning coloration and social behavior make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
Fork-Tailed Woodnymph
The Fork-Tailed Woodnymph (Thalurania furcata) is a dazzling hummingbird with shimmering green plumage, deep violet hues on the throat, and a distinctively forked tail. Males have more vibrant coloration, while females display a more subdued greenish-gray appearance.
This species is commonly found in tropical rainforests across South America, from Venezuela to Brazil. It prefers humid lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth areas where flowers are abundant.
The Fork-Tailed Woodnymph primarily feeds on nectar, using its long, slender bill to reach deep into flowers. It also supplements its diet with small insects. Males can be territorial, often engaging in high-speed chases to defend their feeding areas.
Violaceous Euphonia
The Violaceous Euphonia (Euphonia violacea) is a small, brightly colored songbird with deep violet plumage on its head, back, and wings, contrasted by a striking yellow belly. Males are more vividly colored than females, which are mostly olive-green.
This species inhabits tropical forests and open woodlands across South America, particularly in Brazil, Venezuela, and Argentina. It is commonly found in fruiting trees, where it forages for berries and small fruits.
Violaceous Euphonias are known for their melodious, high-pitched calls. They are social birds, often seen in pairs or small flocks. Their preference for fruit-rich habitats makes them important seed dispersers in their ecosystems.
Amethyst Sunbird
The Amethyst Sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina) is a striking bird with iridescent purple plumage that shimmers in sunlight. Males exhibit a deep amethyst-colored throat and chest, while females are a duller brownish-gray with faint streaks.
Native to sub-Saharan Africa, this species thrives in savannas, woodlands, and gardens. It is highly adaptable and often found near flowering plants, where it feeds on nectar using its long, curved bill.
Amethyst Sunbirds are highly active and territorial, frequently chasing away other birds from their favorite feeding spots. Their fast, hovering flight and acrobatic movements make them a delightful sight for birdwatchers.
Purple-Throated Fruitcrow
The Purple-Throated Fruitcrow (Querula purpurata) is a striking, medium-sized bird with mostly black plumage and a brilliant purple throat patch in males. Females lack the vivid purple but share the same robust build and strong bill.
This species is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, particularly in Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil. It inhabits dense forests, often staying in the canopy while foraging for fruits and insects.
Purple-Throated Fruitcrows are highly social, often found in small groups. Males perform elaborate vocalizations and displays to attract mates. Their loud, resonant calls echo through the forest, making them easy to detect despite their dark coloration.
Plum-Throated Cotinga
The Plum-Throated Cotinga (Cotinga maynana) is a spectacular bird with deep purple-blue plumage on its throat and chest, contrasting with a bright sky-blue back. Males are more vibrantly colored than females, which have a more subdued brownish-gray appearance.
This species inhabits lowland rainforests of the Amazon Basin, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil. It prefers tall forest canopies, where it perches motionless for long periods before darting off in search of fruit.
Plum-Throated Cotingas are relatively silent birds, relying on their striking colors rather than vocalizations for communication. They play an important role in seed dispersal, feeding on a variety of fruits and berries found in their habitat.
Violet-Capped Woodnymph
The Violet-Capped Woodnymph (Thalurania glaucopis) is a small, iridescent hummingbird with a striking violet crown, emerald-green body, and dark blue tail. Males have more pronounced colors, while females are a duller green with a whitish underbelly.
This species is widely distributed in the Atlantic forests of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It prefers humid forests, gardens, and forest edges where flowers are abundant.
Violet-Capped Woodnymphs are fast and agile fliers, hovering in front of flowers to extract nectar with their specialized tongues. Their high-pitched calls and rapid movements make them a lively presence in their tropical habitats.
Violet-Crowned Hummingbird
The Violet-Crowned Hummingbird (Leucolia violiceps) is a sleek and elegant species with a distinctive violet-colored crown, a white throat and belly, and a shimmering green back. Its long, slender bill is bright red with a black tip, making it stand out among other hummingbirds.
This species is found in Mexico and the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. It prefers semi-arid forests, riparian woodlands, and gardens where flowering plants are abundant.
Violet-Crowned Hummingbirds are highly territorial and aggressive when defending their feeding spots. They primarily consume nectar but also catch small insects in midair. Their rapid wingbeats and darting flight make them a fascinating sight.
Costa’s Hummingbird
Costa’s Hummingbird (Calypte costae) is a tiny, dazzling bird known for its brilliant purple throat and crown, which extend into long, flowing feathers. Males display a stunning iridescent plumage, while females are more subdued with grayish-green tones.
This hummingbird is native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico, thriving in deserts, scrublands, and coastal sage habitats. It prefers areas with flowering plants such as ocotillo and chuparosa.
Costa’s Hummingbird is an energetic flier, hovering effortlessly while feeding on nectar. During courtship, males perform dramatic aerial dives to attract females, producing a unique buzzing sound with their wingtips.
Indian Peacock
The Indian Peacock (Pavo cristatus), while predominantly blue, exhibits iridescent purples and violets under the right lighting. Its shimmering feathers create a breathtaking display, especially when the male fans out his extravagant tail adorned with eye-spots.
Native to the Indian subcontinent, this species thrives in forests, grasslands, and even human settlements. It has adapted well to various environments, from dry scrublands to lush gardens and temple grounds.
Indian Peacocks are ground-dwelling birds that forage for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates. Their loud, echoing calls can be heard over long distances, and they use their elaborate plumage displays to court females.
Japanese Paradise Flycatcher
The Japanese Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone atrocaudata) is a striking bird with glossy purplish-black plumage, long ribbon-like tail feathers, and a bright blue eye-ring. Males have dramatically elongated tails, while females are shorter-tailed and browner in coloration.
This migratory species breeds in Japan, Korea, and China, then winters in Southeast Asia. It prefers dense forests, particularly in subtropical and temperate regions.
Japanese Paradise Flycatchers are agile fliers, using their long tails for balance while catching insects mid-flight. Their melodious songs echo through the forest canopy, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch
The Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch (Sitta frontalis) is a small, acrobatic bird with a striking combination of purplish-blue plumage, a black forehead, and a bright red bill. Its wings and back shimmer with shades of deep blue and violet, making it one of the most colorful nuthatches.
This species is found in forests across South and Southeast Asia, from India to Indonesia. It prefers wooded habitats, especially those with old-growth trees where it can forage for insects hidden in bark crevices.
Unlike many birds, the Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch can move both up and down tree trunks with ease. It often travels in small flocks, clinging to branches in various acrobatic poses while searching for food.
Crested Quail-Dove
The Crested Quail-Dove (Geotrygon versicolor) is a rare and elusive bird with dark purplish plumage, a grayish-blue crest, and a soft, buff-colored underside. Its elegant appearance and secretive nature make it a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers.
Endemic to Jamaica, this species inhabits dense montane forests and moist woodlands, often hiding in the undergrowth. It is most active at dawn and dusk when it forages for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates.
Crested Quail-Doves are known for their low, cooing calls that echo through the forest. They are ground-dwelling birds, relying on their camouflage to stay hidden from predators rather than taking flight at the first sign of danger.
Garnet Pitta
The Garnet Pitta (Erythropitta granatina) is a strikingly beautiful bird with deep purplish-red plumage, a black head, and iridescent blue wing markings. Its vibrant coloration helps it blend into the dimly lit forest floor where it forages.
This elusive species is found in the dense tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It prefers humid, lowland forests where it can remain hidden among thick vegetation.
Garnet Pittas are ground-dwelling birds that feed primarily on insects, worms, and small invertebrates. They have a soft, melodious call that echoes through the forest, often giving away their presence before they are seen.
Lilac-Breasted Roller
The Lilac-Breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus) is one of the most colorful birds in the world, with a stunning mix of lilac, turquoise, blue, and green feathers. While its breast is a rich lilac hue, hints of violet and purple can be seen throughout its plumage.
This bird is native to sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It thrives in open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands, often perching on tree branches or fence posts while scanning for prey.
Lilac-Breasted Rollers are skilled aerial hunters, swooping down to catch insects, small reptiles, and amphibians. During courtship, they perform dramatic flight displays, rolling and diving through the air, which gives them their name.
Formosan Blue Magpie
The Formosan Blue Magpie (Urocissa caerulea), endemic to Taiwan, is a striking bird with deep blue plumage that sometimes takes on a purplish hue under certain lighting. It has a long, elegant tail, black head, and bright yellow eyes, making it a visually captivating species.
This bird inhabits forests, woodlands, and mountainous areas, preferring elevations between 300 and 1,200 meters. It is often seen in small, noisy flocks, foraging for fruits, insects, small reptiles, and even eggs of other birds.
Formosan Blue Magpies are highly intelligent and social birds. They have a wide range of calls and can even work together to mob predators, showing strong group coordination. Their boldness and adaptability have made them a beloved symbol in Taiwan.
Purple Swamphen
The Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio) is a large, striking wetland bird with deep purple and blue plumage, a bright red frontal shield, and long, red legs. Its vibrant colors make it one of the most eye-catching members of the rail family.
This species has a broad distribution across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It thrives in marshes, lakes, and wetlands with abundant vegetation, using its strong feet to walk on floating plants and reeds.
Purple Swamphens are omnivorous, feeding on plant material, small animals, and even eggs of other birds. They are strong fliers but prefer to escape danger by running into thick vegetation or swimming away rather than taking to the air.
Southern Carmine Bee-Eater
The Southern Carmine Bee-Eater (Merops nubicoides) is a brilliantly colored bird with a deep carmine-red body, hints of purple on its face and throat, and striking blue wings. It has a slender, slightly curved bill designed for catching insects.
This species is found in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in river valleys, savannas, and floodplains. It often nests in colonies along riverbanks, digging burrows into sandy cliffs to raise its young.
Southern Carmine Bee-Eaters are aerial insect hunters, specializing in catching bees and other flying insects mid-flight. They often perch in groups, scanning the air for prey before launching into swift, acrobatic chases.
Scrub Jay
The Scrub Jay (Aphelocoma californica) is a medium-sized songbird with a mix of blue and gray feathers, sometimes showing a faint purplish sheen. It lacks the crest found in other jays but makes up for it with its bold personality.
This bird is native to the western United States, particularly in scrublands, oak woodlands, and suburban areas. It is highly adaptable and often seen foraging for acorns, seeds, insects, and small vertebrates.
Scrub Jays are highly intelligent, known for their problem-solving abilities and complex social interactions. They cache food for later use, remembering hidden locations with remarkable accuracy. Their loud, raucous calls are a familiar sound in their habitat.
Black-Capped Kingfisher
The Black-Capped Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata) is a striking bird with a glossy black head, bright blue wings, and a deep purple or violet sheen on its back. Its large red bill and white throat contrast sharply with its darker plumage, making it easily recognizable.
This kingfisher is found across South and Southeast Asia, extending into China and parts of the Middle East. It prefers coastal regions, mangroves, and forested riversides, where it hunts for fish, crustaceans, and insects.
Unlike many other kingfishers, the Black-Capped Kingfisher spends a lot of time perching on branches rather than diving frequently into the water. It has a loud, rattling call and is often seen flying in strong, direct movements across open water.
Barn Swallow
The Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a familiar sight across much of the world, with its iridescent blue and purplish sheen on the back, rusty-red throat, and long, forked tail. It is one of the most widely distributed swallow species, found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
This bird prefers open fields, farmlands, and near water sources where insects are abundant. It often nests under bridges, eaves, and barns, building cup-shaped mud nests in sheltered locations.
Barn Swallows are agile fliers, catching flying insects mid-air with acrobatic precision. Their cheerful chirping and graceful flight patterns make them a welcome presence in rural landscapes.
Santa Cruz Ground Dove
The Santa Cruz Ground Dove (Pampusana sanctaecrucis) is a rare and elusive species with soft gray and purple-toned plumage, blending beautifully with the forest floor. It has a compact body, a short tail, and a subtle sheen that reflects shades of lavender and blue.
This species is native to the Solomon Islands and nearby regions, where it inhabits dense tropical forests. It prefers to stay close to the ground, foraging for seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates.
Due to habitat loss and hunting, the Santa Cruz Ground Dove is considered vulnerable. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting its remaining populations and preserving its natural habitat.
Shiny Cowbird
The Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis) is a glossy blackbird with deep purple and violet iridescence on its feathers. Males have a striking sheen, while females are dull brown with less noticeable coloration.
This species is found across South and Central America, extending into the southern United States. It inhabits open fields, grasslands, and agricultural areas, often seen perching on fences or foraging on the ground.
Shiny Cowbirds are brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other bird species. This strategy allows them to reproduce rapidly, though it often comes at the expense of the host birds’ young.
Common Scimitarbill
The Common Scimitarbill (Rhinopomastus cyanomelas) is a slender bird with a curved bill and glossy black plumage that reflects purplish-blue tones in the sunlight. Its distinctive bill helps it extract insects and larvae from tree bark.
This species is native to sub-Saharan Africa, found in dry woodlands, savannas, and scrublands. It moves swiftly among branches, probing for insects and small invertebrates with its specialized beak.
Unlike other members of the hornbill family, the Common Scimitarbill does not rely heavily on fruit and instead focuses on insect prey. It is often seen hopping along branches in search of food, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks.
Rufous-Vented Ground Cuckoo
The Rufous-Vented Ground Cuckoo (Neomorphus geoffroyi) is a secretive bird with dark, purplish-bronze plumage, a long tail, and strong legs suited for life on the forest floor. Its deep, iridescent hues give it a unique appearance, especially in dimly lit undergrowth.
This species is found in the rainforests of Central and South America, often in association with army ant swarms, which flush out insects for the cuckoo to catch. It prefers dense undergrowth where it can remain hidden from predators.
Rufous-Vented Ground Cuckoos are rarely seen due to their shy nature, but they produce deep, resonant calls that echo through the forest. They are considered an indicator species for healthy, undisturbed rainforests.
Hildebrandt’s Starling
Hildebrandt’s Starling (Lamprotornis hildebrandti) is a dazzling bird with a deep violet-blue back, orange underparts, and a bright red eye. Its plumage shimmers with metallic hues, making it one of the most striking starlings in Africa.
This species is found in the dry savannas and open woodlands of East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. It often moves in small flocks, foraging for insects, fruits, and seeds.
Hildebrandt’s Starling is known for its melodious calls and ability to mimic sounds. It is often seen perching on acacia trees or following large herbivores, catching insects disturbed by their movements.
Tricolored Heron
The Tricolored Heron (Egretta tricolor) is a graceful wading bird with a mix of slate-blue, white, and purplish-gray plumage. Its long neck, slender bill, and elegant posture make it a striking sight in wetland habitats.
This species is native to the coastal marshes, estuaries, and swamps of the southeastern United States, Central America, and parts of South America. It prefers shallow waters where it can hunt small fish, amphibians, and crustaceans.
Tricolored Herons are known for their active hunting techniques, often darting through the water, stirring up prey with their feet, and striking quickly with their sharp bills. Their long legs and agility make them efficient hunters in dynamic wetland environments.
