Brubru
NameBrubru
Common NameBrubru
Scientific NameNilaus afer
FamilyMalaconotidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a black crown, broad white supercilium, black eye-stripe, and white throat. The back is black with white scapulars, and the underparts are white with prominent rufous flanks and belly. Females are similar but often duller, with a streaked crown.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, often repeated, whistling 'brrr-brrr-brrr' or 'brubru-brubru'. It also produces various churring and chattering notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south through eastern and southern Africa to Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesBold black, white, and rufous plumage, White supercilium and throat, Rufous flanks and belly, Stout, hooked bill, Distinctive 'brubru' call
Description
The Brubru is a small, striking bushshrike with a bold black, white, and rufous plumage pattern. It is an active forager, typically found in the canopy and mid-story of trees, often in pairs or small family groups. Its distinctive call gives it its common name.
