Black-fronted Bushshrike
NameBlack-fronted Bushshrike
Common NameBlack-fronted Bushshrike
Scientific NameChlorophoneus nigrifrons
FamilyMalaconotidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsMales feature a prominent black mask covering the forehead, lores, and ear-coverts, contrasting sharply with a bright yellow throat and underparts. The back, wings, and tail are olive-green. Females are similar but may have a less extensive black mask.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its varied and melodious vocalizations, which include clear whistles, churring notes, and sometimes mimicry. A common call is a series of whistled 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'whip-whip-whip'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in montane and lowland evergreen forests from East Africa (e.g., Kenya, Tanzania) to parts of Central and Southern Africa (e.g., DRC, Malawi, Mozambique).
Identifying Featuresblack mask covering forehead and eyes, bright yellow throat and underparts, olive-green upperparts, red eye
Description
This small, colorful bushshrike is characterized by its striking black mask, bright yellow underparts, and olive-green upperparts. It typically inhabits the mid-story and canopy of dense forests, where it forages for insects.
