Israel chose the hoopoe as its national bird in 2008.
More precisely, the national emblem is the Eurasian hoopoe, Upupa epops, a striking bird recognized by its orange-brown crest, black-and-white wings, and long, slender bill. It was selected in May 2008 during celebrations of Israel’s 60th anniversary, following a public survey in which about 155,000 citizens participated.
The hoopoe outpolled the white-spectacled bulbul, one of the alternatives in the national-bird selection process. Its broad distribution, distinctive appearance, and familiarity to the public helped make it a compelling national symbol. Hoopoes feed largely on insects and other small invertebrates, including pests that many birds avoid.
The bird’s identity is sometimes confused with a kingfisher or bee-eater because all can be colorful and conspicuous, but their shapes are very different. The hoopoe’s tall erectile crest and long probing bill are its clearest field marks. Its cultural importance also predates the modern designation: hoopoes appear in ancient literature, religious texts, folklore, and art across parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia.