The Eurasian hoopoe is one of the most impressive and peculiar birds of the Western Palearctic, unmistakable for its silhouette, black and white pattern of the wings when in flight, long and curved beak and its very evident crest, even when the bird is in flight. Nesting is confirmed only for Porto Santo, although there are records of occurrence both in Madeira Island, where nesting is likely, and in Ilhas Desertas. It is a bird that uses the soil a lot, so its habitat involves areas with a light herbaceous or shrubby vegetation cover and agricultural areas, normally looking for dry areas. It is protected by the Berne Convention – Annex II and is classified as vulnerable by the Red Book.

 

Photo Credits: Fábio Brito

 

TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY. KNOWING TO PRESERVE!