Red-vented Malimbe
NameRed-vented Malimbe
Common NameRed-vented Malimbe
Scientific NameMalimbus racheliae
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely glossy black covering the head, back, wings, and tail. A prominent, vivid red patch extends from the throat down to the upper breast, and the undertail coverts are also bright red. The bill and legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, thin, sibilant notes, often given in a rapid series, such as "tsip-tsip-tsip" or "see-see-see".
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to west-central Africa, found in southern Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea (including Bioko Island), Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
Identifying Featuresentirely black plumage, vibrant red throat and upper breast patch, red undertail coverts, small size, dark, conical bill
Description
A small, striking weaver bird characterized by its entirely black plumage contrasted with a vibrant red throat and undertail coverts. It typically forages for insects in the understory of lowland rainforests, often in pairs or small groups.
