Ward's Vanga
NameWard's Vanga
Common NameWard's Vanga
Scientific NamePseudobias wardi
FamilyVangidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy black upperparts, head, and a broad breast band, separated from the head by a prominent white collar. The underparts are white, and the wings show white patches. A distinctive pale blue eye-ring is present. Females are similar but slightly duller, sometimes with a rufous wash on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, whistled notes, often described as a repeated 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'tew-tew-tew' that can be quite penetrating.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid evergreen forests of eastern Madagascar, from sea level up to around 1,800 meters.
Identifying Featuresblack and white plumage, broad white collar, pale blue eye-ring, active foraging behavior
Description
A small, striking black and white bird endemic to eastern Madagascar. It actively forages for insects in the mid-canopy and subcanopy of humid forests, often moving quickly through the foliage.
