Indicator minor
The Lesser Honeyguide, *Indicator minor*, is a small, cryptically plumaged bird found across much of Sub-Saharan Africa, measuring approximately 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 in) in length and weighing 20-30 grams. Its plumage features olive-green upperparts, a distinctly grey head, and a dirty white breast and belly, often with faint streaking. A key field mark distinguishing it from other honeyguides are the largely white outer tail feathers, visible in flight, and the absence of a yellow shoulder patc...
Found predominantly in various woodland types, including miombo, acacia, and moist evergreen forests, as well as suburban gardens and orchards, from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Mainly consumes beeswax, bee larvae, pupae, and adult bees, supplemented by other insects such as caterpillars and termites; forages by gleaning from old or disturbed bee nests.
Lesser Honeyguides are generally solitary and secretive, active primarily during the day, often perching inconspicuously in the canopy. Their foraging strategy involves seeking out bee nests, consuming beeswax, bee larvae, and adult bees, often utilizing the remnants of nests raided by mammals or...
The Lesser Honeyguide boasts a vast distribution across Sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through Ethiopia and Somalia, and southwards to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. It is largely resident throughout its extensive range, with no significant migrat...
Least Concern
- The "Lesser" in its name refers to its smaller size compared to the Greater Honeyguide, not lesser importance. - Unlike its famous cousin, the Greater Honeyguide, the Lesser Honeyguide does NOT guide humans or badgers to bees' nests. - Its diet is highly specialized, being one of the few verteb...