The hoopoe is mentioned only twice, in the lists of abominations in Leviticus 11:19 and Deuteronomy 14:18.  It is a beautiful bird, but it is filthy in its eating and nesting habits.  Also, it was a sacred bird to the Egyptians.  These facts probably account for its prohibition in Israel.  It has spectacular plumage , including a fanlike crest.  Its beak is long, thin and curved.

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