Picathartes oreas
The Grey-necked Rockfowl (*Picathartes oreas*) is a strikingly unique and enigmatic passerine, instantly recognizable by its bold appearance and reclusive nature. Measuring approximately 33-38 cm (13-15 inches) in length and weighing 200-250g (7-9 oz), its plumage features glossy black upperparts, wings, and tail, contrasting sharply with a slate-grey neck and underparts. Its most distinctive field marks are its unfeathered head, adorned with two vibrant yellow patches on the sides and a prom...
Found exclusively in lowland and submontane primary tropical rainforests, typically within 100-1400 meters elevation, always in close proximity to rocky outcrops, caves, or large boulders essential for nesting.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide range of invertebrates such as grasshoppers, beetles, ants, snails, and earthworms, supplemented by small frogs, lizards, and other vertebrates found in the leaf litter.
Grey-necked Rockfowls are largely diurnal, often seen foraging on the forest floor, though they are notoriously shy and elusive. They roost colonially, clinging to cave walls or rock faces at night. Their foraging strategy involves methodically hopping through leaf litter, gleaning invertebrates,...
The Grey-necked Rockfowl has a disjunct distribution across west-central Africa, primarily inhabiting the Upper Guinean and Congolian rainforest blocs. Its range includes southeastern Nigeria, southwestern Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea (both on the mainland, Rio Muni, and Bioko Island), Gabon, sout...
Vulnerable
- The Grey-necked Rockfowl is often called a 'bald-headed bird' due to its striking unfeathered head and vibrant facial patterns. - They are considered 'living fossils' due to their ancient lineage and unique characteristics, making them a separate family (Picathartidae) with only two species. - ...