Few birds are as instantly recognizable as the Lilac-breasted roller. Found across sub-Saharan Africa and parts of southern Arabia, this member of the Coraciidae family is known for its spectacular plumage that combines lilac, turquoise, blue, and green.

Rollers are sit-and-wait hunters. Rather than chasing insects in flight, they watch from a vantage point and swoop down to grab prey on the ground. Their diet includes beetles, grasshoppers, small lizards, and occasionally even other small birds. Once captured, the prey is beaten against a hard surface to subdue it before swallowing.

During breeding season, their aerial displays become even more dramatic. The name “roller” comes from their habit of performing tight dives and rolling maneuvers in midair, often accompanied by harsh calls. These displays serve both as courtship and territory defense.