Bird Guide

Madagascar Hoopoe

Upupa marginata

Least ConcernEndemicInvertebratesGrasslandCavity nestMedium · 67 g

About the Madagascar Hoopoe

The Madagascar hoopoe is a species of hoopoe in the family Upupidae. It was previously considered a subspecies of the hoopoe, but was split due to its vocalisations and small differences in plumage. Some taxonomists still consider all three species conspecific. Some authorities also keep the African and Eurasian hoopoe together, but split the Madagascar hoopoe. It is endemic to Madagascar, where its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forest. It is a common bird and the International Union for Conservation of Nature considers its conservation status to be of least concern.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The adult Madagascar hoopoe is about 32 cm (12.6 in) long and weighs 57 to 91 g (2.0 to 3.2 oz). It has a long, decurved bill, and cinnamon-coloured plumage, the wings being boldly barred in black and white. The tail is black and a long, cinnamon crest with black-tipped feathers can be raised when the bird is alarmed. The wings are broad and rounded; the characteristic flight consists of a few beats after which the wings are folded momentarily and the bird glides, before resuming flapping. The female is slightly duller in colour than the male, with less white on the wings.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Madagascar Hoopoe lives

Regular range

When to see the Madagascar Hoopoe

Peak activity in November · a variable species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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