Rare and Auspicious Hoopoe Birds Spotted in Coastal Village of Pohang

POHANG, May 1 (Korea Bizwire) — This morning, a pair of hoopoe birds were spotted feeding their young in an old-growth tree in the coastal village of Hwanyeo-dong,  Pohang in Gyeongsangbuk-do. In Korea, the hoopoe is known as “houtouti” and is considered a rare and auspicious bird that brings good luck and wisdom.

It’s easy to see why they are considered one of the most beautiful birds in the country, with their colorful plumage and unique top-of-the-head feathers, which have earned them the nickname “Indian chief bird”

The houtouti gets its name from its distinctive call, which sounds like “hout”  “hout”. Originally, they were found nesting in rice fields and remote mountains in large tree cavities. However, their adaptability has allowed them to build nests on the roofs and eaves of rural houses.

The hoopoe is found across Europe, Africa, and Asia and has appeared in ancient texts from Egypt, China, Persia, and Israel. The houtouti’s striking plumage has been compared to the hats worn by wise scholars, making it a symbol of intelligence, cleverness, and beauty.

Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com