Dollarbirds got their name from the two silvery white circular patches on each underwing, that flash as they fly. These look like shining American silver dollar coins.

Dollarbirds eat mainly insects, and appear particularly fond of hard-skinned flying insects like beetles. But they will take any large insect or even feed on swarming insects. They also catch other small animals.

Dollarbirds are aerial feeders. Like other rollers, they are flying acrobats, wheeling and swooping about. They catch insects on the wing, with their short flat bills that are broad at the base. But they may also take insects and lizards from on the ground. Large insects are brought back to the perch, to be beaten to death and to knock off less edible bits like hard wing cases.

Feeding alone or in pairs, dollarbirds are frequently seen perching on high vantage points like dead trees or telephone wires, keeping a lookout for a passing tidbit.

They feed in the cooler afternoon and evening. During away during the hottest part of the day, they may hide away or simply remain motionless on their favourite perch.