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Violet Turaco
Musophaga violacea
Violet turacos are West African birds remarkable for their magnificent shimmering bluish violet body plumage, while their head has crimson on the crown and nape, yellow on the forehead and a bright orange beak.
Range & Habitat
Violet turacos are native to more than 20 countries in West Africa, ranging from The Gambia and Senegal east to Cameroon.
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Trapping of these birds for export trade may impact some populations. Also, destruction of habitat for agricultural practices is being monitored by community and national governments in their range countries.
Diet
In the Wild: fruits, berries, insects, and grubs.
At the Zoo: pelleted grain-based food, exotic fruit such as plantains, papaya, mango, melon, apples and blueberries.
Life Span
In the Wild – 5-10 years
In Human Care – up to 30 years.
In Human Care – up to 30 years.
Fun Facts about the Violet Turaco
- Turacos’ 4th toe rotates backward to give them a better grip when perching.
- These birds prefer to run along branches, flying with a weak and dipping flight only when hopping is out of the question.
Sources
Franklin Park Zoo, Violet Turaco. https://www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo/our-animals/birds/violet-turaco/
Lincoln Park Zoo, Violaceous Turaco. https://www.lpzoo.org/animal/violaceous-turaco/
Central Florida Zoo, Violaceous Turaco. https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/animals/violaceous-turaco/
Updated June 13, 2023
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