Ethiopia - Wood-hoopoes: Black-billed or Violet? (1 Viewer)

These shots were taken in late April 2019 in the far North of Ethiopia (near Adigrat). The first photo of the single bird was taken about 50kms from where the other two photos were taken and I am not sure that it is the same as the others - it seems to have a longer beak. The third photo (of a single bird) was one of the four on the post which stayed around after the others had flown off.
The distinctions between the two species are obviously very subtle with both having variations in bill colour and in the colours they show in different lights.
Maybe the first is a Black-billed and could the other four, by any chance, be Violet? It would be good if they were because 'Birds of the Horn of Africa - Redman, Stevenson & Fanshawe' 2016 Edition says "Despite records from extreme SW&S Et, presence in Et requires confirmation.

The first has orange feet with a black bill, that combination can only mean adult Black-billed?

Isn't confusion more likely with Green and Violet?

Thanks Andy. Well, I would be pleased to think that the 2nd & 3rd photos are either Green or Violet. Do you have any views on which? I can't see any hint of green!! But, according to the guide 'Birds of the Horn of Africa' Violet have only (possibly) been seen in the extreme SW & S Et, and Green are indicated as being confined to very small areas in the extreme West. My sightings were in the extreme North which is why I left Black-billed (which is much more widespread - including North) in the mix.

C Chad said:

Thanks Andy. Well, I would be pleased to think that the 2nd & 3rd photos are either Green or Violet. Do you have any views on which? I can't see any hint of green!! But, according to the guide 'Birds of the Horn of Africa' Violet have only (possibly) been seen in the extreme SW & S Et, and Green are indicated as being confined to very small areas in the extreme West. My sightings were in the extreme North which is why I left Black-billed (which is much more widespread - including North) in the mix.

Click to expand...

The fourth bird down in pic two, definitely has some green on the mantle whilst the top bird has a suggestion of green in the shoulder. Any more shots?

Andy - three more shots of the same bird(s). I think the second one is suggesting Green!?.....which, while not quite as good as Violet, would significantly extend the range for Green indicated in the 'Birds of the Horn of Africa' Guide.
Chris

Must be Green?

Thanks Andy.