+255 734 074 840 info@tranquilzanzibar.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login
+255 734 074 840 info@tranquilzanzibar.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login

Fischer’s Turaco

Fischer's Turaco

Species Name: Fischer’s Turaco (Tauraco fischeri)

Physical Description:

  • Appearance: Fischer’s turaco is a medium-sized bird with a striking appearance. It has vibrant green plumage on the upperparts, a deep blue-purple crown, and a crimson red patch on the lower back. The wings and tail are darker green with red primary flight feathers. Its bill is yellow and slightly curved.
  • Size: Adults typically measure about 40 to 45 centimeters (16 to 18 inches) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 50 to 55 centimeters (20 to 22 inches).
  • Distinctive Features: The combination of vibrant green, blue-purple, and crimson red plumage makes Fischer’s turaco easily recognizable.

Habitat:

  • Range: Fischer’s turacos are native to the montane forests of eastern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
  • Preferred Environment: They inhabit dense, moist forests at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,400 meters (3,300 to 7,900 feet). They are often found in the canopy and mid-story levels of the forest, where they feed on fruits and insects.

Behavior:

  • Activity: Fischer’s turacos are diurnal birds, primarily active during the day. They are arboreal and spend much of their time foraging and moving through the forest canopy.
  • Diet: They are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, berries, and seeds. They will also consume insects and small invertebrates as part of their diet.
  • Social Structure: Fischer’s turacos are typically found in pairs or small family groups. They are vocal birds and communicate with a variety of calls, including loud, resonant “kow-kow-kow” calls.

Fischer's Turaco

Tauraco fischeri

Fischer’s Turaco is one of the endemic, colorful birds to be found in Zanzibar. They occur in isolated areas of the southerly regions of Tanzania. Fischer’s Turaco belongs to a family of Musophagidae which are only found in Africa. It’s a small bird, mainly green but having a bright red bill and the tips of the wings are bright red with various yellow streaks and black. The crown of the head has a slight gray covering with a white ring around the eye. The tail is long with the ending being a light blue color. This bird is well known to be found on the main island of the seven being on Pemba Island. Although it is not considered an endangered species, it is locally uncommon and therefore restricted to areas where there is little bird hunting or trapping. This species of bird is quite vocal and often gives their position away to opposing predators. Its diet is mainly ripe fruit and occasionally insects. They can be easily spotted searching for food in the upper canopy level of trees. Turaco’s make a very unique nest being exposed in the outer branches of trees. The nests consist of a cup shape mainly using twigs, but being lined with leaves and any other soft material.

Fischer’s Turaco, scientifically known as Tauraco fischeri, is a stunning bird species native to East Africa, including the island of Zanzibar. Known for its vibrant plumage and unique features, this avian beauty attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Physical Characteristics of Fischer’s Turaco

Fischer’s Turaco boasts a striking appearance characterized by its emerald-green plumage, accented with flashes of red and white on the wings and tail. These birds possess a distinctive crest on their heads, which adds to their regal demeanor. Their long tails and robust bodies contribute to their graceful presence in their natural habitat.

Behavioral Patterns

In terms of behavior, Fischer’s Turacos are known for their social nature and strong pair bonds. They are often seen in small family groups or pairs, engaging in activities such as preening, sunbathing, and vocalizing to communicate with one another. During the breeding season, male turacos may perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates, showcasing their agility and vitality.

Adaptations for Survival

Fischer’s Turacos have evolved several adaptations to thrive in their forested habitats. They are primarily frugivorous, feeding on a diet consisting mainly of fruits, berries, and leaves. Their specialized digestive systems enable them to efficiently process plant material and extract nutrients, making them well-suited to their herbivorous lifestyle. Additionally, their bright plumage serves as both camouflage and a warning signal to potential predators, helping them evade detection and deter attacks.

Best Places to Spot Fischer’s Turaco in Zanzibar

For those eager to catch a glimpse of Fischer’s Turaco in its natural habitat, Zanzibar offers several ideal locations for birdwatching. The Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, with its dense forests and diverse birdlife, is a prime spot for observing these majestic birds amidst the lush greenery. Visitors can also explore the island’s coastal regions, where Fischer’s Turacos may be found foraging for food among the treetops.

Reproduction:

  • Breeding Season: Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season when food resources are abundant.
  • Nesting: Females build bulky, cup-shaped nests made of twigs, leaves, and other plant materials, usually placed in dense foliage or shrubs.
  • Eggs: Females lay clutches of 2 to 3 eggs, which they incubate for about 21 to 23 days. Both parents participate in feeding and caring for the young, known as chicks.

Conservation Status:

  • Threats: Fischer’s turacos face threats from habitat loss and degradation due to deforestation, logging, and agricultural expansion. They are also vulnerable to trapping for the pet trade and hunting for their colorful feathers.
  • Conservation Efforts: Efforts to conserve Fischer’s turaco populations include habitat protection, establishment of protected areas, and research on their ecology and behavior. Additionally, public education initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of conserving these birds and their forest habitats.
Book a tour to Zanzibar
Whatsapp

Start Planning

  • Describe your dream trip
  • A travel consultant will help curate your experience
  • Confirm & start packing