Scimitar-billed Wood Hoopoe (Rhinopomastus cyanomelas)

Scimitar-billed Wood Hoopoe

It is a long, matte bird renowned for its slender, greatly-decurved black bill. This bird species avoids forests and thrives in arid, densely-leaved woodlands singly or in pairs. Most of the time, they shin around trunks, foraging for invertebrates, sometimes joining other mixed-species groups. It is easily detected through its wistful, whistled … Read more

Greater Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis)

Greater Painted Snipe

It is a medium-sized, striking shorebird that thrives in marshes and grassy fields. Both males and females sport a distinct comma-like mark across the eye. Strong sexual dimorphism is observed on these birds and their roles interchange during the breeding season. Read further to know more about the Greater Painted Snipe. What … Read more

African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp)

African Pied Wagtail

It is black-and-white wagtail occurring in Africa, sporting distinct white wing panels and eyebrow and a distinct black patch on the throat. Pairs or family groups can be found in a broad range of habitats, even those altered by human activities. It runs on the ground as it pursues prey while its … Read more

Common Waxbill (Estrilda astrild)

Common Waxbill

It is a smallish finch, with a red bill, long tail, and short wings. The plumage is almost entirely gray, accentuated by gray-brown bars, a dark vent, and conspicuous red mask. Often occurring in vocal groups in reedy and grassy areas in its African range, otherwise, in urban areas. It has been … Read more

Southern Masked Weaver (Ploceus velatus)

Southern Masked Weaver

It is a small weaverbird, with red eyes, subtly-barred yellowish-green back, and pinkish-brown legs. The males have a conspicuous black mask, while females and immature birds are dull. Prefers semi-arid locations and open savannas. These birds are resident and colonial nesters in trees or branches. Their call is a grating, swizzling note, … Read more

Pin-tailed Whydah (Vidua macroura)

Pin-tailed Whydah

It is a small, highly sociable, docile that thrives in a wide range of open habitats, such as parks, gardens, and agricultural fields. The stunning adult male is conspicuous with its vivid reddish bill, and lengthy tail. Being a songbird, it produces various sounds, such as “chee-chee-chee,” “zhhweeet,” and “seeeooo” notes plus … Read more