Bare-faced Go-away-bird

Crinifer personatus

The Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Crinifer personatus, is a distinctive medium-sized turaco endemic to East Africa, renowned for its striking bare facial skin. Measuring approximately 43-48 cm (17-19 inches) in length, including a long, graduated tail that accounts for nearly half its body length, and weighing between 190-280 grams, it presents a predominantly soft grey plumage. Its wings and tail often exhibit a subtle greenish sheen, contrasting with blackish primary flight feathers and a small,...

Habitat

Found in savanna woodlands, acacia scrub, riverine forests, and cultivated areas, typically at elevations up to 1800-2000 meters.

Diet

Primarily frugivorous, consuming wild figs, berries, and various other fruits, supplemented by flowers, young shoots, and occasional insects like termites.

Behavior

The Bare-faced Go-away-bird is a diurnal and highly arboreal species, spending most of its time clambering actively through the canopy and dense thickets. It typically forages in small, loose flocks of 2-8 individuals, sometimes joining mixed-species groups. Foraging involves agile movements, oft...

Range

The Bare-faced Go-away-bird is a resident species found throughout a significant portion of East Africa. Its breeding and year-round range extends from central and southern Ethiopia and Somalia, south through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, into western and central Tanzania, and eastern Democ...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The common name 'Go-away-bird' is an onomatopoeic translation of their loud, characteristic call, which sounds like they are shouting 'go-away!' to intruders. - Unlike the vibrantly colored true turacos, Go-away-birds are unique within their family for their predominantly grey plumage and lack ...

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