A migratory species with a small number breeding in Cyprus, but not in the Akamas peninsula. It’s seen usually in flocks, in many places during the migration period (spring: mid-April – May, autumn: end of August – September), while often only the calls can be heard when the flocks fly very high. The groups can often be seen sitting on trees with bare branches and electricity wires, for resting or using them as a base to hunt.

It has excellent flying abilities, using them to catch its prey that includes a wide range of flying insects. In combination with its bright and vibrant colors, it’s almost unmistakable. Its coloration includes a vibrant reddish-brown back and crown, a bright yellow throat, a turquoise body, a long tail and a long, slightly down-curved black beak.