A beautifully colored bird that is very common in Thailand is the Indian roller (Coracias benghalensis). It is a bird of the roller family (Coraciidae). The species' scientific name was published as Corvus benghalensis in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus.

The bird is 30 to 34 cm long and weighs 166 to 176 grams. It is the only roller with a striking blue band over the wings, a feature that is visible from a great distance. The nominate has a blue crown, brown back, and a lilac "face" and chest. The belly is pale blue. The beak is black and the tail is relatively short.

The habitat of the European roller consists of open agricultural areas, meadows, plantations, savannah landscape with scattered trees (acacias), along roads with overhead cables, in parks, villages with lots of greenery, gardens in suburbs.

In Thailand, the bird seems to prefer drier lands, although it is also found in smaller numbers in wetland areas. Birdwatchers in Thailand will soon notice the distinctive contours of the Indian Roller, often seen perched on cables. When you see the bird flying, you immediately notice the beautiful blue wings.

1 thought on “Birdwatching in Thailand: the Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)”

  1. sjakie says up

    What a bird and what a picture!!!
    Enjoy these beautiful shots, thank you.


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