Northern Puffback
NameNorthern Puffback
Common NameNorthern Puffback
Scientific NameDryoscopus gambensis
FamilyMalaconotidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy black upperparts, head, and a broad breast band. The throat and belly are white, and the lower back feathers are conspicuously white, often puffed up. Females are similar but may have a less distinct breast band or a greyish wash on the flanks. Both sexes have bright reddish-orange eyes and a stout black bill.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive series of whistles and clicks, often described as 'chick-we-chick-we' or 'puff-puff-puff', sometimes given in a duet. The 'puffback' name refers to the sound and the visual display.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east through the Sahel region to Ethiopia, and south to parts of Angola and Zambia.
Identifying Featuresblack cap and upperparts, white underparts, conspicuous white lower back feathers (often puffed), bright reddish-orange eyes, stout black bill
Description
The Northern Puffback is a striking black and white bushshrike, known for its habit of puffing up the white feathers on its lower back during display or alarm. It is an active bird, typically foraging for insects in dense vegetation within woodlands and savannas.
