Crested Barbet
NameCrested Barbet
Common NameCrested Barbet
Scientific NameTrachyphonus vaillantii
FamilyLybiidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsThe head is a striking mix of red, yellow, and black, topped with a prominent black crest. The back and wings are black with distinctive white spotting. The underparts are pale yellow, often with red or orange streaking on the flanks and breast, and a notable red patch on the rump. It possesses a stout, pale greenish-yellow bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, loud, trilling or bubbling call, often described as a sustained 'krrrr-krrrr-krrrr' or 'trrrrrr-trrrrrr-trrrrrr' that can be heard for long periods.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Southern Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesProminent black crest, Brightly colored head (red, yellow, black), Stout, pale greenish-yellow bill, Black back and wings with white spotting, Yellow underparts with red/orange streaking, Red rump patch
Description
The Crested Barbet is a strikingly colorful medium-sized bird, easily identified by its prominent black crest and vibrant plumage. It is an active forager, often seen hopping on the ground or in trees, feeding on a varied diet of fruits and insects.
