Agelastes niger
The Black Guineafowl, *Agelastes niger*, is a striking member of the Phasianidae family, distinguished by its almost entirely glossy black plumage. Averaging 40-45 cm (16-18 inches) in length, its most distinctive feature is the bare, vibrant red head and upper neck, contrasting sharply with its dark body. Unlike many other guineafowl, it lacks a prominent casque or crest, further highlighting its unique appearance. This species belongs to the monotypic genus *Agelastes*, with its closest rel...
Found primarily in undisturbed primary and mature secondary moist lowland evergreen forests, preferring areas with dense undergrowth. It typically occurs at elevations from sea level up to around 1,000 meters.
Feeds primarily on insects, such as ants, termites, and beetles, along with their larvae. It also consumes fallen seeds, berries, and small molluscs found in the leaf litter.
The Black Guineafowl is a diurnal, terrestrial bird, usually observed foraging on the forest floor in small, cohesive groups of 2-8 individuals. They meticulously scratch through leaf litter and decaying vegetation to uncover food, exhibiting a cautious and shy demeanor. When alarmed, they prefer...
The Black Guineafowl is a resident species endemic to the lowland rainforests of West and Central Africa. Its distribution spans southeastern Nigeria, southern Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea (including Bioko Island), Gabon, the Republic of the Congo, and parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo...
Near Threatened
- The Black Guineafowl is one of only two species in the genus *Agelastes*, making it quite unique among the guineafowl family. The other is the White-breasted Guineafowl. - Unlike most guineafowl species which can be quite bold, the Black Guineafowl is notoriously shy and secretive, often only d...