Tauraco erythrolophus

Among the most striking birds of Cumbira is the red-crested turaco, Tauraco erythrolophus.
It is easily recognised by its red crest, green plumage and crimson wing feathers, which are particularly visible in flight. Its loud call can be heard from a considerable distance within the forest.
The turaco feeds mainly on fruit and plays an important role in seed dispersal. By carrying and depositing seeds in different locations, it contributes to the regeneration of vegetation.
It is often described as Angola’s national bird. However, in the absence of a clearly identified official legal document, the most accurate wording is to regard it as one of the most emblematic and representative birds of Angolan wildlife.
Unlike the Gabela akalat or the Gabela bushshrike, the turaco is not restricted to Cumbira. It occurs in other forested and wooded habitats across Angola, but remains one of the country’s most powerful visual symbols of wildlife.