© DickDaniels (http://theworldbirds.org/) / CC BY-SA 3.0Red-crested Turaco
The Red-crested Turaco is a striking bird native to western Angola, where it holds the distinction of being the country's national bird. Its green plumage is set off by a vivid red crest and white face, and crimson flight feathers flash into view whenever it takes wing. Its call is a low, dog-like bark quite unlike typical birdsong, and its diet centers on fruit. Listed under CITES Appendix II, this species is generally considered suitable for experienced keepers rather than beginners. Little documentation exists on its lifespan, and adults typically reach 45 to 50 cm in total length. With its bold colors and distinctive voice, it stands out among aviary birds.
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Red-crested Turaco key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- Little data
- Size
- 45-50 cm
- Diet
- Mainly fruit, with vegetables, softbill or turaco pellets and insects
- Housing
- An arboreal bird that bounds from branch to branch, it needs a large, tall aviary furnished with many perches and branches.
- Temperament
- It lives in pairs or flocks and forms strong monogamous bonds, so it suits keeping as a pair.
- Vocalization
- It gives a deep, loud barking call, especially at dawn, so noise needs consideration near homes.
- Feeding
- Mainly frugivorous: feed chopped fruit and vegetables with softbill pellets and a few insects.
- Notes
- The fruit diet makes droppings copious and wet, so clean often and remove spoiled fruit.
About Red-crested Turaco
A guide to the Red-crested Turaco, an Angola-native bird with a green body, vivid red crest, and CITES Appendix II status, an advanced-level species best suited to experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Red-crested Turaco
1Suited to Experienced Keepers
This species is considered suitable for experienced keepers, not beginners. Prospective owners should build solid knowledge and experience with birds before bringing one home.
2Needs Ample Flight Space
Adults reach 45 to 50 cm in length and are active fliers. Housing should include enough space to fly, not just a cage to perch in.
3A Fruit-Centered Diet
In the wild, Red-crested Turacos feed mainly on fruit, and captive diets should likewise be built around fresh fruit. Careful attention to nutritional balance is essential.
4A Distinctive Low Call
Its call is a low, resonant bark reminiscent of a dog, quite different from typical songbird chirping. Depending on where you live, this may be worth considering for your neighbors.
5Striking Coloration
Its striking color palette of a green body, red crest, and white face is one of its main appeals. In flight, the red flight feathers spread into view for an even more vivid display.
6Limited Lifespan Data
Documented information on lifespan is limited, and no clear figures are available. When planning for long-term care, keep this uncertainty in mind.
7Listed Under CITES Appendix II
The Red-crested Turaco is listed under CITES Appendix II. Prospective owners should understand this before proceeding with acquisition.
Frequently asked questions about Red-crested Turaco
- Q.Can a beginner keep a Red-crested Turaco?
- A.This species is considered suitable for experienced keepers rather than beginners. First-time bird owners are generally better off starting with an easier species and building experience first.
- Q.How big does it get?
- A.Adults reach a total length of about 45 to 50 cm. Given this substantial size, keepers should provide ample housing space.
- Q.What does its call sound like?
- A.It makes a low, barking sound reminiscent of a dog. This is quite different from the typical chirping of small songbirds.
- Q.What should I feed it?
- A.In the wild it feeds mainly on fruit, so captive diets should likewise center on fresh fruit. Careful attention to nutritional balance is important.
- Q.Are there any legal regulations to be aware of?
- A.The Red-crested Turaco is listed under CITES Appendix II. This is an important point to understand before considering acquisition.
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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