Stactolaema leucotis
The White-eared Barbet (Stactolaema leucotis) is a striking medium-sized African barbet, typically measuring 17-19 cm (7-7.5 inches) in length and weighing 40-64 grams. Its most distinctive field marks are the prominent pure white ear-coverts and a bright red forehead and forecrown, set against an otherwise blackish body plumage. A bold yellow orbital ring around its dark eyes further enhances its distinctive facial pattern. This species possesses a stout, dark bill characteristic of barbets,...
Found primarily in Afromontane evergreen forests, moist lowland forests, dense woodlands, and coffee plantations, typically at elevations between 900 and 2400 meters, though occasionally as low as 300 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide variety of fruits, with a strong preference for figs (Ficus species). They also supplement their diet with insects such as termites, ants, beetles, and caterpillars.
White-eared Barbets are diurnal, active during the day foraging and maintaining their territories, often roosting in tree cavities or dense foliage at night. Their foraging strategy is mainly arboreal, gleaning fruits from trees, particularly figs, and occasionally snatching insects. They are ter...
The White-eared Barbet has a disjunct distribution across East and Southern Africa, typically associated with Afromontane forest belts. The species is resident, with no significant migratory movements. Subspecies `Stactolaema leucotis leucotis` is found in central Kenya south to northeastern Tanz...
Least Concern
- White-eared Barbets are excellent excavators, often creating their own nest cavities in dead wood, a trait shared with their distant relatives, the woodpeckers. - Their impressive duetting calls are not just for communication, but also serve a vital role in strengthening pair bonds and defining...