Arrow-marked Babbler
NameArrow-marked Babbler
Common NameArrow-marked Babbler
Scientific NameTurdoides jardineii
FamilyLeiothrichidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)62.5
Plumage DetailsDull brown overall, with dark brown feathers on the head, neck, and breast prominently marked with white, arrow-shaped streaks, creating a scaled effect. The back and wings are plain brown, and the belly is a paler brown. Features a dark bill and striking bright orange-red eyes.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its noisy, chattering vocalizations, often given in chorus by groups. Calls include harsh alarm notes and softer contact calls used to maintain group cohesion.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Angola and the southern Democratic Republic of Congo eastward to Tanzania and southward into South Africa.
Identifying Featureswhite arrow-shaped streaks on head and breast, bright orange-red eyes, social and noisy group behavior, dull brown plumage
Description
This medium-sized babbler is characterized by its dull brown plumage adorned with distinctive white arrow-shaped streaks on its head and breast. It is a highly social species, typically found foraging in noisy groups on the ground or in low vegetation across its African range.
