Melaniparus guineensis
The White-shouldered Black Tit (*Melaniparus guineensis*) is a striking passerine bird, often observed actively foraging in the woodlands and savannas of West and Central Africa. Measuring approximately 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing between 15-20 grams, its plumage is predominantly glossy black, providing a stark contrast to its most distinctive field marks: prominent white patches on the shoulders (median coverts) and a clear white wingbar. This species belongs to the family Pari...
Found in open woodlands, savannas with scattered trees, forest edges, riparian forests, and cultivated areas, typically from sea level up to 1,800 meters elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on caterpillars, beetles, ants, spiders, and their larvae, supplemented occasionally with small seeds or fruits, especially during dry periods.
White-shouldered Black Tits are diurnal and highly active, often observed gleaning insects and larvae from leaves, twigs, and bark, frequently hanging upside down with remarkable agility. They are generally seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, though outside the breeding season, they fr...
The White-shouldered Black Tit (*Melaniparus guineensis*) is a widespread resident species found across a significant portion of sub-Saharan Africa. Its distribution extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through countries such as Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name and appearance, it was reclassified from the genus *Parus* to the exclusively African genus *Melaniparus* based on genetic evidence. - Its striking white shoulder patches and wingbars are crucial identification marks, making it easily distinguishable from other black tit...