Black-headed Paradise-Flycatcher
NameBlack-headed Paradise-Flycatcher
Common NameBlack-headed Paradise-Flycatcher
Scientific NameTerpsiphone ruficeps
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)18.5
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales and females exhibit similar plumage, characterized by a glossy black head, throat, and upper breast. The rest of the body, including the back, wings, and tail, is a vibrant rufous (reddish-brown). It has a pale blue-grey bill with a black tip and a distinctive blue eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of sharp, buzzing notes often described as 'zweet-zweet-zweet' or 'tzzzz-tzzzz'. It also produces a softer, whistling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range of sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa (e.g., Sierra Leone, Liberia) through Central Africa (e.g., Cameroon, Gabon, Congo) to parts of East Africa (e.g., Uganda, Kenya).
Identifying Featuresglossy black head and throat, rich rufous body, wings, and tail, pale blue-grey bill with black tip, prominent blue eye-ring
Description
This striking flycatcher features a glossy black head and throat, contrasting sharply with its rich rufous body and tail. It is an active insectivore, typically found foraging in the understory and mid-canopy of forests, often catching insects in flight.
