| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Near Threatened
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| Approximate size(adult): | Length about 29–32 cm; wingspan 52–60 cm; weight around 130–160 g. A striking bird with bright blue head, underparts, and wings, contrasting with rufous-brown back and shoulders. In flight, the brilliant turquoise and deep blue wings are especially conspicuous.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Breeds across southern and eastern Europe, parts of North Africa, and western Asia. A long-distance migrant.
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| Migrate to: | Winters in sub-Saharan Africa, mainly in open savannas and wooded grasslands. Migration occurs through the Middle East.
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| Breeding season: | May to July in the breeding range. Pairs form monogamous bonds and perform spectacular aerial courtship displays.
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| Breed in: | Nests in tree cavities, old woodpecker holes, or building crevices. Does not excavate its own nest. The female lays 4–6 white eggs, incubated for about 18–20 days. Both parents feed the chicks.
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| Habitat: | Prefers open countryside, farmland, forest edges, and savannas with scattered trees. Avoids dense forests and deserts. Requires perches for hunting and nesting sites with cavities.
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| Diet: | Feeds mainly on large insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and locusts. Also takes small reptiles, amphibians, and rodents. Hunts from a perch, swooping down to catch prey on the ground.
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