Brown-throated Wattle-eye
NameBrown-throated Wattle-eye
Common NameBrown-throated Wattle-eye
Scientific NamePlatysteira cyanea
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy blue-black head and upperparts, a broad brown-maroon band across the throat and breast, and white underparts. A distinct white bar is present on the wings, and a bright red, fleshy wattle surrounds the eye. Females are similar but may have a narrower breast band.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of buzzing, churring, and whistling notes. Common calls are often described as a rapid 'twee-twee-twee' or a harsh 'churr-churr-churr'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, and south through much of Central Africa to Angola and Zambia.
Identifying FeaturesBright red eye wattle, Brown-maroon throat and breast band, Glossy blue-black upperparts, White underparts, White wing bar
Description
The Brown-throated Wattle-eye is a small, striking passerine known for its glossy blue-black upperparts and a prominent red wattle above the eye. It actively forages for insects in the mid-canopy and undergrowth of various wooded habitats.
