Rufous-sided Broadbill
NameRufous-sided Broadbill
Common NameRufous-sided Broadbill
Scientific NameSmithornis rufolateralis
FamilyEurylaimidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsMales feature a glossy black head, a contrasting white throat, and vivid rufous flanks. The back is dark brown with white spots on the wings, and the underparts are heavily streaked black and white. Females are similar but generally have a duller black head.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, mechanical 'whirring' or 'buzzing' sound produced by its specialized wing feathers during display flights, often described as a 'whizz-whizz-whizz'. It also emits soft, high-pitched calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, its range extends from Sierra Leone east to Uganda and south through parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo to Angola.
Identifying Featuresblack head, white throat, rufous flanks, streaked underparts, broad, flattened bill, distinctive wing whirring sound
Description
This small, striking broadbill has a distinctive black head, white throat, and bright rufous flanks. It typically perches quietly in the understory of tropical forests, sallying out to catch insects in flight.
