Tricholaema melanocephala
The Black-throated Barbet (Tricholaema melanocephala) is a striking member of the African barbet family, Lybiidae, easily identified by its distinctive head pattern. This medium-sized barbet, typically measuring 16-19 cm in length and weighing 30-50 grams, sports a prominent black throat and face, sharply contrasted by a bright white supercilium and a vibrant red or orange crown and forehead, often more extensive and brighter in males, showcasing subtle sexual dimorphism. Its stout, dark bill...
Found primarily in dry acacia and Commiphora bushland, semi-desert scrub, and thorny savanna, typically at low to moderate elevations up to 2,000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming various wild fruits and berries, especially figs, supplemented with insects such as ants, termites, and beetles.
Black-throated Barbets are diurnal birds, often observed singly or in pairs, though small family groups can sometimes be seen. They are active foragers, gleaning insects from foliage and bark or sallying to catch flying prey. Their diet also includes a significant proportion of fruit, for which t...
The Black-throated Barbet is endemic to East Africa, inhabiting a relatively broad range across Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. It is a non-migratory resident species throughout its distribution. Several subspecies are recognized, each with specific regional strongholds: *Tricholaema mela...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'Tricholaema' comes from Greek, meaning 'hairy throat,' possibly referring to the bristles around the bill, while 'melanocephala' means 'black head. - Despite their often bright head plumage, their olive-green backs provide excellent camouflage against foliage in their dry, ...