About Musophaga violacea Isert, 1788
Characteristics: These birds are unmistakable, but they are shy and often inconspicuous in the treetops. They are approximately 48 cm (19 in) long, including a long tail and a 4 cm (1.6 in) bill. They have a wing length of 21 cm (8.3 in) and weigh approximately 360 g (13 oz). Their plumage is glossy violet, except for the yellow forehead, chestnut crown and white ear coverts; the bill is thick and red. In flight, the violet turaco's crimson primary flight feathers contrast with the violet plumage. The red colour in the wings is typical of turacos. Habitat: This is a resident bird of West Africa, and has an extremely large range from Senegal through to Nigeria, with isolated populations in Chad and the Central African Republic. It occurs in tropical savannas, wetlands, woodlands and forests. Reproduction: Cooperative breeding behaviour has been observed in captivity for this species. They breed mainly during the rainy season, but the timing varies by location. Breeding starts around April in Senegal and Gambia, while in Nigeria it occurs between June and October. The female lays two eggs in a flimsy tree platform nest. Both the male and female take care of the eggs and hatchlings.
