Silverbird
NameSilverbird
Common NameSilverbird
Scientific NameEmpidornis semipartitus
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsAdult Silverbirds have a distinctive slate-grey head, nape, back, wings, and tail. Their entire underparts, from the chin to the undertail coverts, are a vibrant rufous-orange. The sexes are similar in appearance.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of soft, melodious whistles and trills, often delivered from a prominent perch. It can also produce a more harsh, churring alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Silverbird is endemic to East Africa, found from South Sudan and Ethiopia south through Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. It inhabits a range of open woodland, savanna, and acacia scrub habitats.
Identifying Featuresslate-grey upperparts, bright rufous-orange underparts, upright posture on perches, flycatching behavior
Description
The Silverbird is a striking medium-sized flycatcher characterized by its contrasting plumage. It typically perches upright on exposed branches, scanning for insects which it often catches in flight. This species is known for its active foraging behavior in open woodlands and savannas.
