Indian Rollers for Sale

(Coracias benghalensis)

Indian rollers, also known as palapittas or neelkanths, are beautiful exotic birds with an extensive tropical range. They weigh a tad over 3 ounces and average about 10 to 11 inches in length. In contrast, the smallest bird in the world, the bee hummingbird, is 2.24 inches long. Additionally, it weighs less than half an ounce, according to the GuinnessWorldRecords.com. Still having trouble visualizing their diminutive size? A pack of playing cards weighs about 3.3 ounces and is about 3.5 inches long. In other words, these are tiny beauties!

What they look like

Indian rollers (Coracias benghalensis) are non-migratory birds. Yet, they are often mistaken for their migratory relative, the European roller. While both birds sport stunning plumage, breast coloration differentiates the two. The Indian roller has a drab brown breast, while the breast of the European roller is blue. Vivid feathers of blue, green, and lilac hues accent the dull breast feathers. When seen in flight, the full effect of the range of coloration is dazzling. Many consider them to be one of the most colorful birds in India. Unlike many other bird species, both sexes are alike in appearance.

Where they are found

India is the native home for many Indian rollers. However, they also inhabit a large topical Asia range and can be found in areas such as:

• Northern Iraq
• East Arabia
• Indian Subcontinent
• Indochina

What’s in a Name

During mating season, Indian rollers perform remarkable feats of aerobatic skill. Hence, the name “roller.” The males flaunt their aerial prowess to attract mates. They perform heart-stopping rolls and twists interspersed with bowing or tail fanning. Naturally, the bird with the most flare wins the fair, feathered maiden.

While not related to mating, they are also prone executing “high dives” into water. A casual observer might think they are fishing, but it’s bath time for these energetic stunt flyers.

Indian Rollers Diet

Indian rollers are foragers and not in the least picky about their grub. These ground feeders like to feast on insects like beetles, grasshoppers, and crickets. Other favorite food sources include:

• Spiders
• Small reptiles such as snakes and lizards
• Amphibians frogs, toads, newts, and salamanders

Although they are active foragers in their natural habitat, they are hard to feed in captivity since they won’t eat grains.

Endangered Species Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) list their status as LC, or Least Concern. But, that doesn’t mean the species isn’t at risk from other factors like cultural beliefs. In Hinduism, they are regarded as sacred birds.

Hindus believe it is good luck to see one of these beautiful birds on Dussehra (or Dasara). This is a Hindu festival commemorating the triumph of good over evil. In the past, large numbers of Indian Rollers populated India. It was easy to see one.

However, as the country developed, and the cities grew, it caused a decline in the bird population. Sensing an easy source of fast cash, poachers and traders began to capture and sell them at the festival. The birds are ill-treated in captivity, and as mentioned earlier, difficult to feed. Few of them survive the trauma. Thus, these magnificent creatures may soon be at risk.

Why birds make good pets

Many potential pet owners opt for birds over mammals for a variety of reasons. Since they are fur and dander free, they are perfect for those with allergies. For the apartment dweller, the allure may be their ability to thrive in small spaces. The fact that one may not have to pay a monthly pet fee, or an upfront pet deposit is a bonus. Other reasons for choosing an avian friend are:

• Minimal grooming and maintenance needs
• Inexpensive to feed
• Long-lived, highly social companions

Pet ownership can improve your life. You can choose a feathered companion or decide to go with a furred pet. Other alternatives are featherless or furless friends. You’ll be healthier emotionally and physically, and you’ll never feel lonely. What’s not to like about that scenario?