Speckled Mousebird
NameSpeckled Mousebird
Common NameSpeckled Mousebird
Scientific NameColius striatus
FamilyColiidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsOverall greyish-brown plumage, darker on the upperparts and paler on the underparts. It features a distinctive white crest on its head and a reddish-brown vent. The bill is dark with a pale base to the lower mandible, and the eyes are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp 'tsee-tsee' or 'tsik-tsik' call, often given in flight or when disturbed. They also produce chattering or squeaky sounds within a flock.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, found from West Africa eastward to Ethiopia and southward to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesLong, stiff tail, Prominent white crest, Greyish-brown plumage, Reddish-brown vent, Mouse-like movements through vegetation
Description
The Speckled Mousebird is a slender, greyish-brown bird characterized by its long, stiff tail and prominent crest. It often moves through vegetation in a mouse-like fashion, clinging to branches and twigs with its strong feet. These social birds are typically found in small flocks.
