White-bellied Go-away-bird
NameWhite-bellied Go-away-bird
Common NameWhite-bellied Go-away-bird
Scientific NameCorythaixoides leucogaster
FamilyMusophagidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)210
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and breast are dark grey, transitioning to a lighter grey on the back and wings, which show fine barring on the primaries. The belly, flanks, and undertail coverts are pure white. It has a distinctive, shaggy dark grey crest and a long, graduated tail that is dark grey to black with a broad white band across the middle.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, nasal, and often repeated calls, typically described as a 'go-away' or 'kwaa-kwaa-kwaa' sound, which can be heard from a considerable distance.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, primarily across Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and southeastern Sudan.
Identifying FeaturesProminent dark grey crest, Dark grey upperparts contrasting with white belly, Long tail with a distinctive white band, Loud, nasal 'go-away' call, Grey bill
Description
This medium-sized turaco is characterized by its prominent dark grey crest and striking contrast between its dark grey upperparts and pure white belly. It is often found in dry acacia savannas and woodlands, where it forages for fruits and other plant matter, frequently announcing its presence with loud, nasal calls.
