Kingdom: Animals
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Cuculiformes
Family: 3
Species: 160
Lady Ross’s Turaco
Range: South West Africa
Habitat: Forests
Conservation Status: Vulnerable
Scientific Name: Tauraco erythrolophus
The Lady Ross’s Turaco (rhymes with Morocco) has a crest of red feathers on the top of its head. Turacos are the only family of birds that truly have red and green feathers. The red coloration on the Lady Ross’s species comes from copper-based pigments in the feathers themselves. This is a tree dwelling fruit eater that lives in family groups. Up to eight birds will live together and defend their territory. They have a heavy, labored flight, so to move around quickly, they hop from branch to branch. They rapidly run along vines and branches squirrel-style. Their two outer toes rotate backwards for better gripping, and their long tails help with balance. Their call sounds like “g’way”, which is why they are often referred to as “go-away birds.