Lilac-breasted Roller look-alikes
Coracias caudatus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Lilac-breasted Roller. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
European Roller
Coracias garrulus
Key differences
The European Roller lacks the lilac breast and turquoise belly of the Lilac-breasted Roller. It has a more uniform blue-green body plumage with a brown back. Its tail streamers are also less prominent or absent.
Rufous-crowned Roller
Coracias naevius
Key differences
The Rufous-crowned Roller is larger and duller, with a streaked brown and white breast, a rufous crown, and lacks the vibrant lilac and turquoise colors. It also lacks the long tail streamers.
Abyssinian Roller
Coracias abyssinicus
Key differences
The Abyssinian Roller has a blue head and breast, a brown back, and very long, thin tail streamers. It lacks the distinct lilac breast and turquoise belly of the Lilac-breasted Roller.
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