Hairy-breasted Barbet
NameHairy-breasted Barbet
Common NameHairy-breasted Barbet
Scientific NameTricholaema hirsuta
FamilyLybiidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)52
Plumage DetailsThe head features a black crown, a prominent white supercilium, and a black eye-stripe, with a white malar stripe. Upperparts are olive-green, often with yellowish spotting on the wings and mantle. The underparts, from the throat to the flanks, are white with heavy dark olive-green barring or scaling, creating a streaked or 'hairy' effect. The bill is stout and dark grey to black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of repeated, rather monotonous 'poop-poop-poop' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa' notes, which can accelerate and increase in volume. It also produces trilling or rattling calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone east through countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, extending to Uganda and south to Angola.
Identifying FeaturesBlack and white striped head pattern (white supercilium, black crown, black eye-stripe), Olive-green upperparts with yellowish spots, Heavily barred white and dark olive-green underparts, Stout, dark bill
Description
The Hairy-breasted Barbet is a medium-sized, arboreal bird found in the forests of West and Central Africa. It is characterized by its striking black and white head pattern, olive-green upperparts, and heavily barred underparts that give a 'hairy' appearance. This species typically forages in the canopy for fruits and insects.
