I live in Dubai, have done for years, but have just seen a bird that i have never seen before in my life..?

Question

This bird looked like the size of a large jay or a rook. It had a base colour of rust with bright greeny blue band on the wings and a touch on the head. Any ornathologists out there? Could someone point me in the direction of even a helpful web site.

Answer 1

With a short Jay-like tail it is a Roller, with a long tapering tail it is an Abyssinian Roller. Either way, your description suits the Roller and allies.

Answer 2

It sounds like a Bee-eater. They will sit up high, for instance on a wire. They have a long tail and bill. Hope this helps.