Apalis bamendae
The Bamenda Apalis (Apalis bamendae) is a charmingly diminutive and active warbler, a true gem of the Afromontane forests of West Africa. Measuring approximately 11-13 cm in length and weighing a mere 7-10 grams, this slender passerine is characterized by its olive-green upperparts and clean whitish underparts. A key identifying feature is its contrasting dark grey to black cap, complemented by a subtle pale eyering and a two-toned bill. While generally lacking pronounced sexual dimorphism, f...
This apalis is an inhabitant of submontane and montane forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth, typically found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,900 meters.
Its diet consists almost exclusively of small insects and other invertebrates, which it primarily gleans from foliage and bark.
The Bamenda Apalis is a highly active and restless diurnal bird, constantly flitting through the dense undergrowth and lower to mid-canopy. It forages primarily by gleaning insects from leaves, twigs, and bark, often in pairs or small family groups. While sometimes observed alone, it frequently j...
The Bamenda Apalis is restricted to the montane forests of western Cameroon and adjacent eastern Nigeria, representing a classic Afromontane endemic distribution. Its primary range includes the Bamenda Highlands and Oku Massif in Cameroon, extending westwards into the Gotel Mountains and Cross Ri...
Near Threatened
- The Bamenda Apalis is endemic to a very small region of West Africa, making it a highly localized species. - Its name, 'Bamenda,' refers to the Bamenda Highlands in Cameroon, a stronghold for this species. - Despite its small size, it often joins mixed-species foraging flocks, demonstrating coo...