The Green Wood Hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus) is a magnificent, near-passerine tropical bird indigenous to Africa, measuring up to 44 cm (17 in) in length. Belonging to the family Phoeniculidae, formerly known as the Red-Billed Wood Hoopoe, this species boasts a striking metallic dark green plumage with a purple back and a remarkably long, diamond-shaped purple tail. Its wings are adorned with distinctive white markings, while white chevrons on the tail edges add to its identifiable features, not to mention its long, slender, and elegantly curved red bill.
The Green Wood Hoopoe thrives in various African regions, including South Africa, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, among others.
Its presence spans different biomes, such as freshwater environments, anthropogenic biomes, forests, savannas, and shrublands.
Being a terrestrial species, the Green Wood Hoopoe is not a migratory bird. It primarily subsists on insects and is often spotted foraging on the ground, termite mounds, or tree trunks. During the non-breeding season, these birds form flocks while maintaining their impressive dexterity to cling to the undersides of branches, meticulously inspecting bark for insects.
As for its mating habits, the Green Wood Hoopoe is a cooperative breeder and a common resident in forests, woodlands, and suburban gardens across sub-Saharan Africa. Within these groups, typically consisting of around a dozen birds, only one pair participates in breeding activities. The female lays two to four blue eggs in a natural tree hole or an old barbet nest and incubates them for approximately 18 days. After hatching, the rest of the group actively participates in feeding both the mother and the nestlings, even after the young ones have left the nest. Fearless in defense, this species shows great courage in protecting its offspring from intruders. However, it is known to be parasitized by the greater and lesser honeyguides.
The population of the Green Wood Hoopoe is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, despite a declining trend. The species remains widespread and common throughout its vast range, making it a treasured presence in African landscapes.
