White-headed Woodhoopoe Bird Details
Phoeniculus bollei
White-headed Woodhoopoe
NA
Karel Johan Gustav Hartlaub, 1858
Bucerotiformes (HOOPOES and HORNBILLS)
Phoeniculidae
Phoeniculus
Sub-Saharan Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique.
Appearance :
The White-headed Woodhoopoe is characterized by its distinctive white head, contrasting with its glossy black body and wings. It has a long, curved bill and strong legs for perching and climbing.
Behaviour :
These birds are social and typically seen in small family groups or flocks. They are known for their loud, musical calls that echo through the forest.
Habitat :
They inhabit woodland and savanna areas, often near water sources. They prefer areas with sufficient tree cover for nesting and foraging.
Diet :
Their diet primarily consists of insects, such as ants, beetles, and caterpillars, which they find by probing bark and leaf litter.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
They are native to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly found in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Population Size :
Population numbers are not readily available.
Life Span :
Around 5-10 years.
Body And Tarsus:
- Glossy black plumage overall with a distinctive white head.
- Tarsus length: Typically, around 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches).
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is white, contrasting with a long.
- Bill: It is relatively long and slender, and slightly curved and measures approximately 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches) in length. The bill is black in color.
Length :
Approximately 35-40 cm (14-16 inches)
Neck :
Long and slender, connecting the head to the body.
Size :
Medium-sized bird.
Tail Details :
- Tail: Long, black tail with white markings.
- Tail Length: Approximately 15-20 cm (6-8 inches).
Weight :
Typically around 100-150 grams.
Wing :
Broad wings suitable for short flights.
Wing Span :
Around 20-25 cm (8-10 inches).
Facial Feature :
Prominent facial pattern with white head and black mask around eyes and throat.
Nest Details :
- Nest: They build a cavity nest in tree holes or old woodpecker nests.
- Nest Made Up of: The nest is lined with leaves, grass, and feathers.
Breeding Season :
During the wet season
Nesting Season :
Nests from September to February.
Egg Color :
White or creamy-white with irregular brownish markings.
Egg Length :
Approximately 24-28 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: Around 18-20 mm.
- Egg Weight: Each egg weighs about 5-6 grams.
Clutch Size :
Usually 2-4 eggs per clutch.
No. of Broods :
Raise one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Around 14-16 days.
Nestling Period :
Fledge after about 26-28 days.
Vocalization :
Loud, musical calls often heard in their territories.
Sex Demorphism :
Subtle differences in size and plumage brightness between males and females.
Migration Details :
Non-migratory birds.
