African Hill Babbler
NameAfrican Hill Babbler
Common NameAfrican Hill Babbler
Scientific NamePseudoalcippe abyssinica
FamilySylviidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThe head and nape are dark grey, contrasting with a reddish-brown mantle and back. The underparts are pale greyish-white, often with a buffy wash on the flanks. Wings and tail are dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched chattering or babbling series of notes, often described as 'chick-chick-chick' or a more complex, warbling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the highlands of eastern Africa, its range extends from Eritrea and Ethiopia south through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, to northern Tanzania.
Identifying Featuresgrey head, reddish-brown back, greyish underparts, small size, active foraging
Description
This small, active babbler is characterized by its grey head, reddish-brown back, and greyish underparts. It typically forages for insects in the dense undergrowth of montane forests, often moving in small groups.
