Favorite Birds (#5)

After a visit to Egypt in May 2008 (lucky me!), I have a new favorite bird. Move over Cedar Waxwing ... make room for the Hoopoe!


The Hoopoe (Upupa epops) is common in the Middle East and its range extends from southern Europe and Africa to southeastern Asia. It is about 11 inches long and the most striking feature is the hairdo. When its crest is down, the Hoopoe's head looks something like a hammer (or a pharaoh's crown; is that where the Egyptians got the idea?), and when it's up, you see the long, black-tipped feathers. Way cool.

We spotted our first Hoopoe on the way to Alexandria, then saw several more in Alexandria on the palace grounds of the former king. When we went back to Cairo, we visited a lovely park within walking distance of our hotel and watched several Hoopoes feeding and doing other Hoopoe things. They seemed to lift their crests whenever they flew or landed or if they were startled.

Of course, I still love the Cedar Waxwing with its great punk hairdo, bandit mask, and sleek feathers. Maybe what I need to do is start a "Favorite Bird by Continent" list. ;-)