The family Upupidae, within the order Coraciiformes, consists of a small group of birds known as hoopoes. These birds are easily recognized by their distinctive crown of feathers, long curved bills, and striking black-and-white wing patterns. Hoopoes are found across Europe, Asia, and Africa, favoring open landscapes, savannas, and woodland edges. They are primarily insectivorous, probing soil and crevices with their long bills to extract insects and larvae. Upupids are notable for their unique “trumpet-like” calls and their habit of sunning and dust-bathing, behaviors believed to aid in parasite control. Though generally solitary or seen in small family groups, hoopoes are culturally significant and often featured in folklore and symbolism across their range.