Upupa epops
The Hoopoe is a striking bird with a pinkish-brown body, black and white striped wings, and a distinctive fan-like crest. Its long, curved bill is perfect for probing the ground for insects. The crest usually lies flat but raises when the bird is excited or alarmed.
Both sexes look similar, with juveniles appearing duller. The Hoopoe's plumage remains consistent year-round, with no seasonal changes.
Length
25cm to 32cm
Wingspan
44cm to 48cm
Weight
46g to 89g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Black White
Secondary Colour
Pink Orange
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Grey
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Hoopoes inhabit many open habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and urban parks across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They prefer areas with bare or short-grass patches for foraging.
Hoopoes are summer visitors to many countries in Europe, migrating to Africa for winter. They are rare but regular visitors to the UK, typically during spring migration.
Up to 3,650 meters
Temperate, Subtropical, Tropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Hoopoe. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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