Opal-backed turaco (SciiFii)

The opal-backed turaco (Neocorythaeola sciifii) is a species of turaco, one of the four species of American turacos of the subfamily Americamusophagidae, that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, and shrublands across North America to help boost biodiversity. Generally, the opal-backed turaco is about 70–76 centimeters (28–30 inches) in length with a mass of 800–1,231 grams (1.764–2.714 lb), making it and the great blue turaco (Corythaeola cristata) of Africa among the largest species of turacos. It has a bright blue body, rounded wings, long tail, and strong legs. Both the males and the females are similar in appearance and their coloration doesn’t change throughout the year. Opal-rumped turacos are herbivores (frugivores), and they eat mainly fruits, leaves, buds, and flowers, but vegetables can be supplemented. Opal-rumped turacos are gregarious, non-migratory birds; they live in groups of up to 10 individuals and several groups may gather in one large tree. These birds are weak flyers, but they are strong climbers and are able to move nimbly on branches and through vegetation. Being fairly arboreal they rarely come down to the ground, only to drink or to bathe. Opal-rumped turacos are active during the day. They feed starting from early morning and until the dusk; during the mid-day heat, the birds may rest in shades of the tree canopy. Opal-rumped turacos are vocal birds and are usually heard at dawn and dusk. They make loud guttural 'kok-kok-kok' and also soft trills. Opal-rumped turacos are monogamous and form pairs. Their breeding season depends on location. When the pair is formed, both adults begin to build the nest. It is a platform made with dry sticks and placed in a tall tree, often near water. The female lays 2 eggs and both parents incubate them for 29-31 days. The chicks are fed by both parents. They leave the nest 6 weeks after hatching but stay with their parents for up to 3 months. The conservation status of the opal-backed turaco is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the opal-backed turaco's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.