White-headed Barbet
NameWhite-headed Barbet
Common NameWhite-headed Barbet
Scientific NameLybius leucocephalus
FamilyLybiidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)57.5
Plumage DetailsThe head, throat, and upper breast are pure white. The rest of the upperparts, wings, and tail are blackish-brown, often with white streaking or scaling, giving a mottled appearance. The lower breast and belly are white, sometimes with dark streaking on the flanks. The bill is stout and black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a monotonous, rhythmic series of "poop-poop-poop" or "kwa-kwa-kwa" notes, often given in duets by a pair.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, from South Sudan and Ethiopia south through Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania, extending into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying Featureswhite head, white upper breast, dark mottled body, stout black bill, monotonous rhythmic call
Description
This medium-sized barbet is characterized by its striking white head and upper breast, which sharply contrasts with its dark, mottled body plumage. It typically perches upright, feeding on fruits and insects in its woodland and savanna habitats.
