Dusky Tit

Overview

The Melaniparus funereus is a small bird in the tit family Paridae, native to the tropical rainforests of central Africa. Formerly placed in the genus Parus, it was moved to the resurrected genus Melaniparus following a 2013 molecular phylogenetic analysis.

Identification

• Primarily black plumage with brownish or gray tones, with males being darker than females.
• Distinctive red or orange-red eyes.
• Relatively small bill size.
• Chirp described as 'dree di-di-di'.

Habitat

Resides in humid forests, old plantations, and cultivation edges across central Africa, including Angola, the DR Congo, South Sudan, Uganda, Liberia, Ghana, and Kenya.

Diet

Primarily feeds on small invertebrates such as beetles, orthopterans, and micro-lepidopterans, alongside seeds and fruits.

Did you know?

It takes approximately 4.2 years for the species to regenerate and repopulate, despite currently being listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.