Birds Around Me 0065 - Common Hoopoe हुदहुद (Upupa epops)

- November 02, 2023

The Common Hoopoe (Upupa epops), known in Hindi as हुदहुद, is one of the most striking and charismatic birds found across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Its fawn‑colored body is beautifully contrasted by bold black‑and‑white zebra markings on the wings, back, and tail. Perhaps its most distinctive feature is the fan‑shaped crest, which can be raised or lowered at will. When alarmed or excited, the crest flicks open like a crown, giving the bird a regal appearance.

Common Hoopoe हुदहुद (Upupa epops)
Jabalpur, December 2025

The Hoopoe’s long, slender, slightly curved bill is a versatile tool. It uses it like both an axe and forceps, probing the soil for insects, larvae, and worms. This feeding behavior makes it a valuable ally in gardens and agricultural fields, where it helps control pests naturally.

In India, the Common Hoopoe is often seen in lawns, gardens, and lightly wooded open country, frequently near towns and villages. They are usually spotted in pairs or small parties, moving with a distinctive erratic flight pattern—flapping and gliding in a way that seems undecided.

The bird’s call is unmistakable and gives it its English name. A soft, resonant “hoo‑po” or “hoo‑po‑po” is repeated several times, sometimes intermittently for over ten minutes. This rhythmic call is often heard before the bird is seen, making it a familiar sound in rural and suburban landscapes.

Culturally, the Hoopoe has long fascinated humans. It appears in folklore, poetry, and even religious texts, often symbolizing beauty, wisdom, and mystery. Despite its delicate appearance, it is a hardy bird, thriving in diverse habitats from grasslands to orchards.

For birdwatchers and nature lovers, the Common Hoopoe is a delight—a bird whose crest, colors, and call make it one of the most recognizable and enchanting species in the avian world.

Hindi Name of Common Hoopoe (Upupa epops): हुदहुद

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Ashutosh Jhureley @BirdsAroundMe