Southern Red-fronted Tinkerbird

Overview

The southern red-fronted tinkerbird (Pogoniulus pusillus) is a small bird in the African barbet family Lybiidae, currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. It is found in southern Mozambique and eastern South Africa and was formerly regarded as conspecific with the northern red-fronted tinkerbird.

Identification

• Measures 9–10.5 cm in length, featuring a plump body, short neck, large head, and short tail.
• Displays black upper parts heavily streaked with yellow and white, with a distinctive golden wing patch and a red forecrown spot on the head.
• Underparts and rump are lemon yellow; adults possess a strong black and white head pattern, while young birds lack the red forehead.
• Produces a fast 'tink-tink-tink-tink' call at approximately 101 repetitions per minute, which is very similar to that of the yellow-fronted tinkerbird.

Habitat

This species is found in southern Mozambique and eastern South Africa, where it is associated with juniper forest and scrub. It nests in a tree hole and typically lays two or three eggs.

Diet

The bird eats berries and fruit, particularly mistletoe, but also takes insects while foraging in deep cover.

Did you know?

Unlike their larger barbet relatives which often perch prominently, tinkerbirds sing from cover, making them more frequently heard than seen.