Smithornis sharpei
The Grey-headed Broadbill, *Smithornis sharpei*, is a captivating yet often elusive passerine found in the dense undergrowth of African forests. This small, stocky bird typically measures 12-14 cm in length, with a wingspan of approximately 20-22 cm and weighing 18-24 grams. Its most striking field mark is the distinct slate-grey head, which contrasts subtly with its olive-green to yellowish-green upperparts and whitish underbelly, often streaked or tinged yellow, and accentuated by a promine...
This species primarily inhabits the understory of lowland and montane evergreen forests, often favoring dense thickets, secondary growth, and areas near streams or marshy patches. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from near sea level up to 2,000 meters, occasionally higher.
The Grey-headed Broadbill is an insectivore, primarily feeding on flying insects such as flies, beetles, moths, and small wasps. It employs a distinctive sallying technique to catch prey mid-air.
The Grey-headed Broadbill is a diurnal and rather secretive bird, often observed alone or in pairs, typically hidden within dense foliage. Its primary foraging strategy is aerial sallying, where it perches motionlessly, then darts out to snatch flying insects mid-air, often returning to the same ...
The Grey-headed Broadbill exhibits a fragmented distribution across the moist forests of Central and East Africa, making it a resident species throughout its range without significant migratory movements. Its breeding range spans from southeastern Nigeria and Cameroon eastward through the Central...
Least Concern
- The Grey-headed Broadbill is one of only three broadbill species found in Africa, with the majority of the family residing in Asia, highlighting its unique evolutionary history on the continent. - It produces a distinctive mechanical 'whirring' or 'buzzing' sound with its wings during display f...