The turaco is an enchanting bird, known for its dazzling green or red plumage and melodic, distinctive call. Found across sub-Saharan Africa, these medium-sized birds are a symbol of beauty and adaptability. Although not common as pets, turacos are increasingly popular in aviaries for their captivating appearance and calm temperament.
Key Features of Turacos
- Stunning Plumage
- Turacos showcase vibrant colors, with species like the Great Blue Turaco flaunting iridescent green and others, such as the Violet Turaco, featuring deep reds and purples.
- The green and red hues in their feathers come from unique pigments called turacoverdin and turacin, found only in turacos.
- Elegant Crests
- Many turaco species have a prominent crest atop their heads, adding an extra layer of elegance to their look.
- Distinctive Call
- Their calls range from melodious to comical, often resembling laughter or chattering, making them easily recognizable.
- Medium Size
- Most turacos are around 16 to 30 inches long, including their long, graceful tails.
Caring for Turacos in Aviaries
- Dietary Needs
- Turacos are primarily frugivores, requiring a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables:
- Fruits: Papaya, banana, grapes, and berries.
- Greens: Leafy vegetables like kale and spinach.
- Supplements: Exotic bird pellets can provide additional nutrients.
- Turacos are primarily frugivores, requiring a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables:
- Aviary Design
- Turacos thrive in large, naturalistic enclosures:
- Size: A spacious aviary of at least 8×10 feet is ideal for their comfort and flight.
- Features: Include perches, live plants, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.
- Climate Control: Maintain warm, temperate conditions with some humidity.
- Turacos thrive in large, naturalistic enclosures:
- Behavioral Enrichment
- Offer branches for climbing and toys to stimulate their intelligence.
- Their playful nature means they enjoy exploring their surroundings.
- Health Maintenance
- Routine health checks and monitoring for dietary deficiencies or stress are essential.
- Ensure clean water is always available for drinking and bathing.
Why Turacos Are Admired
- Unique Colors
- Their feathers contain rare pigments, making them one-of-a-kind among birds.
- Charming Calls
- Their melodic and often humorous vocalizations make them entertaining companions.
- Calm Nature
- Turacos are generally gentle and adapt well to aviary life, making them easy to observe and care for.
Challenges of Keeping Turacos
- Space Requirements: A sufficiently large aviary is essential for their well-being.
- Dietary Precision: Maintaining a fruit-heavy diet can be costly and time-consuming.
- Rarity in Captivity: While not endangered, turacos are not as readily available as other exotic birds.
Why Turacos Are Popular in Aviaries
Their dazzling colors and engaging calls make turacos a favorite in aviaries, offering both aesthetic appeal and unique behavior. They are excellent additions to aviary collections focused on exotic species.
Is a Turaco Right for You?
For bird enthusiasts with the space and commitment to provide a proper aviary, turacos can be a delightful and rewarding choice. Their beauty, charm, and gentle disposition make them a joy to observe and care for.
Explore more about turacos and other exotic birds in our Birds section.