Apalis nigriceps
The Black-capped Apalis (Apalis nigriceps) is a striking, small passerine bird, measuring approximately 11-13 cm in length and weighing 8-12 grams. This dapper warbler is easily identified by its contrasting black cap that extends to the nape, brilliant white throat, dark grey upperparts, and pure white underparts, creating a distinctly elegant appearance. Its slender, dark bill and dark eyes complete its distinctive field marks. Taxonomically, it belongs to the Cisticolidae family, often ref...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, as well as montane forests, typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 2000 meters. It prefers the mid-story and canopy layers, often frequenting dense undergrowth and vine tangles.
Its diet consists almost exclusively of small insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and flies, as well as spiders, which it primarily obtains by gleaning from foliage and bark.
The Black-capped Apalis is a highly active, diurnal insectivore, spending its days methodically foraging through the forest canopy and subcanopy. It employs a gleaning foraging strategy, meticulously picking small insects and spiders from leaves, twigs, and bark, occasionally making short aerial ...
The Black-capped Apalis exhibits a disjunct distribution across West and Central Africa, primarily occurring in two distinct populations. The western population stretches from Sierra Leone and Liberia eastward through Ghana, Togo, and Nigeria, extending into western Cameroon. The eastern populati...
Least Concern
- The Black-capped Apalis measures only 11-13 centimeters in length, making it a very small but agile forest bird. - Its genus name, Apalis, is derived from the Greek word 'apales', meaning 'delicate' or 'soft', likely referring to its dainty appearance and movements. - Unlike many bird species, ...