Slate-colored Boubou
NameSlate-colored Boubou
Common NameSlate-colored Boubou
Scientific NameLaniarius funebris
FamilyMalaconotidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)37.5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is uniformly dull black or dark slate-grey across the entire body. A striking feature is its dark red to reddish-brown eyes, which contrast with its dark head.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its melodious and often complex duetting calls, where a pair of birds will call in a coordinated sequence. Calls typically consist of clear, whistling notes, sometimes described as 'bou-bou-bou' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to eastern Africa, with its range extending from Sudan and Ethiopia south through Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania, reaching parts of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesUniformly dark slate-grey to black plumage, Prominent dark red eyes, Stout, slightly hooked bill, Distinctive duetting vocalizations, Secretive behavior in dense cover
Description
The Slate-colored Boubou is a medium-sized, entirely dark bushshrike found in eastern Africa. It is known for its secretive nature, often staying hidden in dense vegetation, and its distinctive duetting calls.
