Four-colored Bushshrike
NameFour-colored Bushshrike
Common NameFour-colored Bushshrike
Scientific NameLaniarius quadricolor
FamilyMalaconotidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)46
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts, wings, and tail are olive-green. It features a bright red throat and upper breast, bordered below by a broad black band across the lower breast. The crown and forehead are yellow, with a distinct black mask extending through the eye. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, often duet calls, which include a series of clear, ringing whistles and churring notes, sometimes described as 'kwip-kwip-kwip' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and southern Africa, specifically from southern Somalia south through coastal Kenya and Tanzania to Mozambique, and inland to parts of Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, extending into eastern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant four-color plumage (olive-green, red, black, yellow), Bright red throat, Broad black breast band, Yellow crown and forehead, Black mask through the eye
Description
A striking medium-sized bushshrike, this species boasts a vibrant plumage of olive-green, red, black, and yellow. It typically inhabits dense vegetation, where it is often heard before it is seen, actively foraging for insects.
