They avoid areas inhabited by humans, so if you spot one in The Oakland Zoo's African Savanna exhibit, be sure to stop and take a look. Lilac-Breasted Rollers engage in daring courtship and territorial displays. Flying straight up, they tip forward and fall rapidly with closed wings. Sweeping up again, they fly high and repeat the display. Their rapid, powerful flight ability and strong, thick bills are ideal for catching lizards and large insects.
Rollers swoop down from a high perch to surprise their prey.
They may eat it there on the ground, or return to their perch before swallowing it whole. Lilac-Breasted Rollers are not endangered. Loss of habitat due to human development is an increasing threat but they are still fairly common throughout their range.