Pholidornis rushiae
The Tit Hylia, Pholidornis rushiae, is an exceptionally small and often elusive passerine, measuring a mere 8 cm (3.1 in) in length and weighing between 4.5 and 6 grams, making it one of Africa's smallest avian residents. Its plumage features olive-brown upperparts contrasted with rufous-orange to cinnamon-buff underparts, frequently adorned with fine, delicate streaking, particularly on the breast and belly, and a yellowish or rufous wash on the head. Key identification marks include its dim...
This species primarily inhabits lowland tropical rainforests, dense secondary growth, and forest edges, typically found at elevations below 1500 meters.
The diet of the Tit Hylia consists primarily of small insects and spiders, which it actively gleans from foliage and twigs within the forest canopy.
Tit Hylias are highly active diurnal birds, constantly gleaning insects from the middle to upper canopy. While specific roosting habits are not extensively documented, they likely involve dense foliage. They employ an acrobatic foraging strategy, often hanging upside down like tits to extract sma...
The Tit Hylia is widely distributed across the tropical forests of West and Central Africa, exhibiting a fragmented but extensive range. Its distribution commences in West Africa, spanning from Sierra Leone and Guinea eastward through Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana. Further east, its presence ...
Least Concern
- The Tit Hylia is one of the smallest birds in Africa, weighing barely more than a U.S. quarter. - Its scientific name, *Pholidornis*, translates to 'scaly bird,' referring to the fine streaking on its underparts. - This tiny bird often constructs its delicate cup-shaped nest remarkably close to...