Malimbus scutatus
The Red-vented Malimbe (Malimbus scutatus) is a striking, medium-sized passerine bird belonging to the weaver family, Ploceidae. Measuring approximately 16-17 cm in length and weighing 20-30 grams, it is predominantly clad in glossy black plumage. Its most distinctive feature, and the origin of its name, is a vivid crimson-red patch on its vent, sometimes extending to the lower belly, creating a stark contrast with its dark body. Males and females are largely monomorphic in appearance, though...
Primarily inhabits lowland evergreen rainforests, secondary growth, and dense forest edges. Typically found at elevations below 1,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, caterpillars, ants, and termites. Occasionally supplements its diet with small fruits or seeds, foraging by gleaning and sallying.
Red-vented Malimbes are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging high in the forest canopy. Their primary foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage and bark, though they are also adept at sallying out to catch flying prey. These birds often join mixed-species foraging flocks,...
The Red-vented Malimbe is a resident species found throughout West and Central Africa, exhibiting no significant migratory movements. Its breeding range encompasses a broad band from Sierra Leone and Liberia eastward through Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria. Further distribution ext...
Least Concern
- The striking crimson-red vent is the definitive field mark for this otherwise all-black forest weaver. - It constructs an elaborate, retort-shaped hanging nest, often suspended from thin branches. - This species is a social bird, frequently observed foraging in mixed-species flocks with other i...