How to identify the Hartlaub's Turaco

To correctly identify the Hartlaub's Turaco (Tauraco hartlaubi), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

40-44 cm (16-17 in)

Wingspan

Approximately 50-55 cm (20-22 in)

Weight

200-250 g (7.1-8.8 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Predominantly iridescent dark green plumage, appearing almost black in poor light. The head features a prominent, erect, glossy blue-black crest tipped with white. A distinct white line runs from below the eye to the nape, and another white patch is present in front of the eye. The primary and secondary flight feathers are a brilliant crimson-red, visible in flight. The tail is dark blue-green.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, stout, and conical, bright red with a yellow tip.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a bare patch of red skin.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to black.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of the glossy blue-black crest with a white tip, the white facial stripes, and the bright red beak with a yellow tip are key distinguishing features. The crimson flight feathers are diagnostic when the bird is in flight.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have a shorter, less developed crest, duller plumage, and a less vibrant beak color. The white facial markings may be less distinct.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes are observed.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are monomorphic, appearing identical in plumage and size.

Key field marks

• Crest. Look for the distinctive glossy blue-black crest with a prominent white tip. This is a key field mark.
• Facial Markings. Identify the clear white stripe running from below the eye to the nape, and the white patch in front of the eye.
• Plumage Color. Note the iridescent dark green body plumage, which can appear almost black in shade but shines green in good light.
• Bill Color. Observe the bright red bill with a yellow tip.
• Flight Feathers. When in flight, the brilliant crimson-red primary and secondary flight feathers are unmistakable and diagnostic.
• Vocalization. Listen for the loud, repetitive 'kow-kow-kow' calls, often given in duets.

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