Hoopoes
Hoopoes
Upupidae
The Crowned Foragers of the Old World: Hoopoes (Upupidae) are unmistakable birds, instantly recognizable by their striking orange plumage, bold black-and-white wings, and elegant, fan-like crests. Found across Europe, Africa, and Asia, they thrive in open woodlands, grasslands, and even urban parks, using their long, curved bills to probe the ground for insects and grubs. One of the Hoopoe’s most fascinating traits is its defensive strategy. Nesting females and chicks produce a foul-smelling secretion from their preen glands, deterring predators and parasites alike. This earned them a reputation for being smelly birds, but it’s an effective survival tactic! In flight, Hoopoes display an erratic, butterfly-like movement, making them both beautiful and challenging to track. Their soft "hoo-hoo-hoo" call is often heard echoing through warm landscapes, giving them their onomatopoeic name. Admired throughout history, Hoopoes appear in ancient Egyptian art and even feature in folklore and religious texts. Despite some declines due to habitat loss, these fascinating birds remain widespread, delighting birdwatchers with their regal crests and charming antics.