Melaniparus thruppi
The Acacia Tit (*Melaniparus thruppi*) is a small, energetic passerine bird native to East Africa, characterized by its distinctive black-capped head, prominent white cheeks, and a variably present black central stripe on its otherwise white underparts. Measuring approximately 12-14 cm in length and weighing 10-15 grams, its upperparts are a uniform grey, contrasting with a dark eye set against its white face. This species exhibits minimal to no sexual dimorphism, with both sexes appearing si...
Found primarily in dry acacia woodlands, thorn scrub, and savanna habitats, often near riverine thickets. Typically occurs at elevations ranging from lowlands up to 1,500 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on caterpillars, beetles, ants, and other invertebrates, supplemented with seeds, particularly during drier periods. Forages actively by gleaning from foliage and bark.
The Acacia Tit is a highly active, diurnal forager, often seen flitting acrobatically through the canopy and undergrowth. It primarily gleans insects and their larvae from leaves, twigs, and bark, occasionally probing crevices or even hawking flying insects. Breeding pairs are monogamous and esta...
The Acacia Tit is resident across a significant portion of East Africa. Its breeding and year-round range extends from southeastern South Sudan and southern Ethiopia, through much of Somalia, eastern Uganda, and central and eastern Kenya, southwards into northeastern Tanzania. This distribution l...
Least Concern
- The Acacia Tit is highly adapted to the hot, dry conditions of its East African habitat, often found far from permanent water sources. - It frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks with other small passerines, enhancing foraging efficiency and predator detection. - Its acrobatic foraging ...