While we shiver in the cold mornings waiting for spring, the roller prepares for its long 7,000-kilometre journey, from southern Africa to its European breeding grounds.

The rollers from the Carpathian Basin spend their winter in Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, unlike their western European relatives, who winter in the eastern part of Africa.

The rollers stay at their wintering sites until the end of March, in areas with tall grass that are rich in food and shelter. 

Most of their prey consists of larger insects, which require warm weather and abundant vegetation for breeding.

Unlike the breeding season, during this time, rollers are not very territorial; they often gather in smaller groups and focus solely on finding food and surviving.

Before embarking on their long journey, they feed more intensively to store enough energy for the flight. Fat reserves are crucial, as there will be stretches of the journey – such as over the Sahara – where food will be scarce.

So, after thorough preparation, the roller sets off on its long journey to return to its European breeding grounds.

The European roller is the Endangered Species of the Year 2025. With your help, we can install nest boxes that provide a safe breeding site for these birds and their chicks. Every nest counts! Support this species with a donation.