This type of turaco is a very sociable and agile bird, living in noisy flocks. They spend most of their time in the trees searching for food and roost close by one another at night. Their long tails are well adapted for balancing on  branches and their feet have excellent grip.

Although sociable, these birds are also very territorial and in the wild can often be aggressive to other birds.

High population numbers and destructive eating habits has meant that in many parts of Africa this turaco is considered a pest.

Where in the world?

Lady Ross’s turaco is native to areas of central Africa.

Threats in the wild

• Destruction of habitat
• Hunting and pet trade

Habitat

These turacos live in canopies of dense trees in forests and woodlands throughout Africa. Here they will live in flocks of up to 30 birds.

Diet

They feed on berries, fruits, insects and snails. They will tent to flock in feeding trees where fruit is readily available. They are important an bird for dispersing seeds through their droppings.

Lifecycle

Both the male and female turacos share responsibility for incubating their eggs and feeding their newly hatched chicks. They keep their nests clean and tidy by eating the eggshells and chick’s droppings.
Other birds within the flock will often help the female care for her young.