South Africa is home to a wide variety of bird species, with bluebirds being among the most beautiful and fascinating.
From the vivid azure of the Cape Glossy Starling to the deep navy of the Southern Blue Crane, these birds offer a stunning visual feast for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Not only are they a joy to behold, but bluebirds play an important role in the environment, helping to keep insect populations in check and providing food for other animals.
This article will explore the various species of bluebirds found in South Africa and discuss their importance to the country’s ecosystems.
1. Lamprotornis
Source: Wikipedia
Lamprotornis is a genus of birds belonging to the starling family, found exclusively in Africa south of the Sahara. These birds are characterized by their glossy blue or green upperparts, a feature caused by their unique feather structure.
The feathers of Lamprotornis contain hollow melanin granules that are arranged in a single layer near their barbule surface. This layer of melanin reflects the light, making the feathers appear glossy and iridescent.
The range of coloration is quite varied, with some birds being blue-green on their upper parts and grey or brown on their bellies and wings.
In addition, the feathers of Lamprotornis are adapted for flight, as they are lightweight and possess a rigid structure that helps to reduce air resistance when the birds are in flight.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Lamprotornis |
2. Blue Crane
Source: Wikipedia
The blue crane is a majestic bird that has been adopted as the national bird of South Africa. It is also known as the Stanley crane and the paradise crane and is found mostly in the open grasslands of the country.
The species is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its declining population. The main threats to this species are destruction of its habitat, human-induced changes to its environment, and illegal hunting.
As its population continues to decline, it is important that steps be taken to ensure the long-term survival of this species. This includes protecting its habitat and encouraging safe and sustainable hunting practices.
Additionally, educational programs could be put in place to help raise awareness about the plight of the blue crane and the importance of conserving this special species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. paradisea |
3. Greater Blue-eared Starling
The Greater Blue-eared Starling is a species of bird that is found in a vast area of Africa, stretching from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia and South Africa in the east.
It is an extremely common resident in open woodlands across its range and is known to undertake some seasonal migrations. The Greater Blue-eared Starling is a large passerine bird with striking blue-green and black plumage and a bright yellow bill.
Its most distinctive feature is its large, blue ear patch, which is present in both males and females.
It has a long tail and a somewhat rounded body shape, and it is around 20 cm in length. During the breeding season, the Greater Blue-eared Starling builds a nest in the branches of trees, which is usually a cup-shaped structure made from twigs and grasses.
The female lays a clutch of two to four eggs and incubates them for around two weeks.
Once the eggs have hatched, both parents will feed the chicks with a mixture of insects and fruits. The Greater Blue-eared Starling is an omnivore, and its diet consists of a variety of fruits, insects, and small reptiles.
It is an active bird that can often be found flying around in flocks, searching for food. The Greater Blue-eared Starling is a very vocal bird, and its call is a loud, cheerful chatter.
During the breeding season, males will sing a complex song that can be heard from a distance. Overall, the Greater Blue-eared Starling is a fascinating bird that is both beautiful and abundant across its range.
It is an important species for maintaining the balance of nature in African woodlands, and its cheerful call is a delightful addition to any outdoor experience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Lamprotornis |
| Species | L. chalybaeus |
4. Thrush
The thrushes are a family of birds known as the Turdidae, which can be found all over the world. They are characterized by their strong and melodic songs.
This family used to be much larger, before biologists reclassified some of the species, such as the chats and European robins, as Old World flycatchers. This reclassification was done to better categorize the birds according to their genetics and physical characteristics.
The thrushes are known for their long wings, strong legs, and short beaks. They feed mainly on insects, worms, and fruit, and they nest in shrubs and trees. Although some species are migratory, most thrushes remain in one area throughout the year.
They are also popular among birders for their colorful plumage, which can range from browns to blacks, and even blues and greens.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
5. African Fish Eagle
Source: Wikipedia
The African fish eagle, also known as the African sea eagle, is a species of eagle found in sub-Saharan Africa. These majestic birds inhabit areas with large bodies of open water and an abundant food supply.
As a result of their wide range, the African fish eagle is a widely recognized species and is known in many languages. This bird is so iconic that it is the national bird of four African countries: Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The African fish eagle is a large species of eagle, weighing between 2 and 4 kg and measuring up to 1 meter across their wingspan. Their feathers range from dark brown to white, with a yellow bill and feet.
The most distinguishing feature of this bird is its white head and chest, which contrast sharply with its dark wings and tail. The African fish eagle feeds on a wide variety of fish, which it scoops up from the water with its talons.
It also feeds on other aquatic creatures such as crabs and turtles.
These birds are known for their loud and distinctive call, which can be heard for miles. The African fish eagle is an impressive species of eagle, and its status as the national bird of four African countries is a testament to its importance.
Its size, unique plumage, and powerful hunting ability make it an impressive sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Icthyophaga |
| Species | I. vocifer |
6. Blue Swallow
Source: birdlife.org.za
The blue swallow is a distinctive species of bird belonging to the swallow family which is part of the larger Passeriformes order. It is recognizable by its small size, and shares many common traits with other aerial insectivores such as martins and swifts.
The bird breeds in the Afromontane region and migrates to the north of Lake Victoria during the winter. The blue swallow primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates and can be seen flitting around in the air in pursuit of its prey.
As a result of its small size and ability to fly, it is able to negotiate small spaces in order to catch insects. It also has the ability to fly at high speeds, making it an adept hunter.
The blue swallow is also notable for its social behavior, often gathering in large groups when migrating or breeding. This species is an important part of its ecosystem, both as a food source for other animals such as birds of prey and as a pollinator.
As a result, it is important to protect this species in order to maintain the balance of the natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Hirundo |
| Species | H. atrocaerulea |
7. African Green Pigeon
The African green pigeon is a type of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family. This species is one of five green pigeon species that inhabit the Afrotropics. It has an extensive range throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, with approximately 17 accepted races.
The African green pigeon can be identified by its bright green plumage, long tail, and short wings. It usually feeds on fruits, nuts, and seeds.
The African green pigeon is an important species for local ecosystems, as it plays a crucial role in the dispersal of seeds and other vegetation. It is also a popular bird among bird watchers and photographers, due to its beautiful colors and distinctive features.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. calvus |
8. Grey Crowned Crane
Source: Wikipedia
The grey-crowned crane is a species of bird that is found in the crane family, Gruidae.
It is native to Africa and is also known by a variety of different names, which include African crowned crane, golden crested crane, golden-crowned crane, East African crane, East African crowned crane, African crane, Eastern crowned crane, Kavirondo crane, South African crane, and crested crane.
It is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters and a height of up to 1.5 meters. It has grey-brown plumage with white patches on its wings and head; its head is topped with a golden tuft of feathers.
The grey-crowned crane is a social species and is usually found in groups of three to five individuals. They feed mainly on insects, small vertebrates, grains, and seeds. They are also known to make loud, trumpeting calls to communicate with one another.
The grey-crowned crane is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to habitat loss and fragmentation. It is also hunted for food in some areas, and its feathers are used for traditional ceremonies.
Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect the species, such as the establishment of protected areas and captive breeding programs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Balearica |
| Species | B. regulorum |
9. Blue Waxbill
Source: Wikipedia
The blue waxbill is a species of estrildid finch native to Southern Africa.
It is easily recognizable by its bright blue plumage, which is why it is also known as the southern blue waxbill, blue-breasted waxbill, southern cordon-bleu, blue-cheeked cordon-bleu, blue-breasted cordon-bleu, and Angola cordon-bleu.
This species is quite common in its native region, and is also popular in aviculture – many people keep it as an aviary bird. The blue waxbill has a distinctive appearance. It has a bright blue head, throat, and upper breast, as well as a light grey back and wings.
Its belly and flanks are a bright yellow color. The male and female blue waxbill look very similar, though the male is slightly larger and has a brighter blue head. The beak is short, thin, and slightly curved.
This species is found in open, grassy habitats, such as grasslands and savannas. It feeds on grass and weed seeds, as well as insects. In captivity, it should be provided with a variety of seeds, along with green leafy vegetables and a few insects.
The blue waxbill is a social species, and it is best kept in small colonies with other waxbills. They are generally peaceful birds but can be territorial when breeding. They are monogamous and will form long-term pair bonds. They will build a nest in tall grass or shrubs.
The female will lay 3-6 white eggs, which she will incubate for about two weeks. The young will fledge after about three weeks. The blue waxbill is an attractive and hardy bird, making it a great choice for aviary enthusiasts.
With the right care, these birds can live for up to 10 years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Estrildidae |
| Genus | Uraeginthus |
| Species | U. angolensis |
10. Blue Korhaan
Source: Wikipedia
The blue korhaan is a species of bird from the Otididae family, which is native to South Africa. This species of bird is a beautiful blue color and it stands out among its peers. Its call is a series of frog-like croaks that can usually be heard while it is in flight.
This bird prefers to live in a habitat of plateau grassland, dry shrubland, arable land, and pastureland. It is a large bird with a long neck and a wingspan of up to five feet. It has a long, pointed beak and a white-tipped tail.
Its legs are strong and long, allowing it to run and fly with ease. The blue korhaan feeds on a variety of insects, small mammals, lizards, and small birds. It is an important species in South African ecosystems and is a favorite among birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Eupodotis |
| Species | E. caerulescens |
11. Woodland Kingfisher
The woodland kingfisher is a type of bird that belongs to the tree kingfisher species. It is quite commonly found in many African countries south of the Sahara Desert.
This species of bird is recognized by its colorful plumage, which is typically a combination of metallic blue, green, and brown colors. Its tail is often bright red, and its beak is black and pointed.
It typically inhabits wooded areas and feeds on insects, small fish, and other invertebrates. It is a vocal bird, and can often be heard chattering and trilling during the day.
The woodland kingfisher is an important species, as it helps to control the insect population in its habitat. It is also an important indicator species, as its presence or absence can reveal much about the health of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Halcyon |
| Species | H. senegalensis |
Conclusion
The bluebirds of South Africa are a beautiful sight to behold. They bring a bright splash of color to the skies and represent a symbol of hope for all who view them. While their numbers may be decreasing, there are still many blue birds to be seen throughout the country.
With conservation efforts and the protection of their habitats, the blue birds of South Africa will continue to bring joy to the people of the country for years to come.
