African Pitta
My favourite fun fact
The African Pitta spends most of its life hidden on the forest floor and is so secretive that many birders spend years trying to see one. Yet every summer, these brilliantly coloured birds undertake a remarkable migration from central Africa to southern Africa, arriving just as the rainy season begins.
Scientific name
Pitta angolensis
Afrikaans name
Afrikaanse Pitta
Description
One of Africa's most colourful birds, the African Pitta has a striking combination of emerald-green upperparts, bright blue wings, a buff-coloured chest and a vivid red belly. Its chunky body and relatively short tail give it a distinctive appearance.
Habitat
Found in dense riverine forests, coastal forests and woodland thickets, particularly in the eastern parts of southern Africa during the summer months.
Interesting behaviour
Male African Pittas perform a spectacular courtship display, puffing out their feathers, spreading their wings and hopping around while giving a distinctive whistle. Despite their bright colours, they can be surprisingly difficult to spot amongst the dappled light of the forest floor.
