Red-backed Mousebird
NameRed-backed Mousebird
Common NameRed-backed Mousebird
Scientific NameColius castanotus
FamilyColiidae
Wingspan (cm)28.5
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)42.5
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dull brown-grey plumage with a distinctive reddish-chestnut patch on the lower back. The head is darker, appearing blackish, with a short crest. The bill is dark with a pale base, and the feet are reddish.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsee-tsee' or 'tsik-tsik' calls, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Angola, found in the western and central regions of the country.
Identifying FeaturesLong, graduated tail, Soft, mouse-like brown plumage, Dark head with a slight crest, Reddish-chestnut lower back, Reddish feet, Social behavior in flocks
Description
The Red-backed Mousebird is a slender, long-tailed bird with soft, mouse-like plumage. It is typically found in small flocks, moving agilely through dense vegetation, often hanging upside down to feed on fruits and leaves.
