Gambia Philately: 1966 Definitive Series – 10/- Kowkow Turro

The violet turaco, also known as the violaceous plantain eater (Tauraco violaceus), is a large turaco, a group of African otidimorphae. Violet turacos are native to more than 20 countries in West Africa, ranging from The Gambia and Senegal east to Cameroon. It occurs in tropical savannas, wetlands, woodlands and forests.

These are unmistakable birds, but shy and often inconspicuous in the treetops. The plumage is glossy violet, except for the yellow forehead, chestnut crown and white ear coverts; the bill is thick and red. In flight, the violet turaco’s crimson primary flight feathers contrast with the violet plumage. The red colour in the wings is typical of turacos.