Least Concern Birds

Violet-crested Turaco

Gallirex porphyreolophus

Violet-crested Turaco eats fruits and insects in African tropical forests.

Scientific name	Gallirex porphyreolophus
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Psittaciformes
Family	Psittacidae
Size	Male: approximately 200-250 grams; Female: approximately 180-230 grams

See this species in the app

How to identify

Distinctive purple crest on the crown; body plumage mainly green with a blue sheen; bright purple and red feathers on the inner wings; red bare skin around the eyes; long tail, green with blue sheen

Habitat

Tropical and subtropical forests, secondary forests, shrublands, and densely wooded areas near river valleys

Diet

Primarily frugivorous, also consumes flowers, tender leaves, and insects; omnivorous with a fruit preference

When it is active

Diurnal, mainly active during the day

Where it lives

East African region, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Mozambique; present in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

How to spot it

Observe at dawn and dusk near forest edges or fruit trees; locate by listening to its distinctive call; use binoculars to observe crest and wing colors

Photography tips

Use natural light to capture the vibrant crest and inner wing colors; choose soft light at dawn or dusk; use a telephoto lens to capture movements in the canopy

Threats

Habitat loss and fragmentation; hunting has minor impact in some areas

Similar species

Red-crested Turaco (Tauraco erythrolophus), distinguished by red crest feathers; Violet-crested Turaco has purple crest feathers and more vivid body colors

📖 how to spot the violet crested turaco on safari