White-spotted Wattle-eye
NameWhite-spotted Wattle-eye
Common NameWhite-spotted Wattle-eye
Scientific NamePlatysteira concreta
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy black upperparts, head, and a broad black breast band, contrasting sharply with a white belly and undertail coverts. A prominent white spot is visible on the forehead, and a small, often dark, wattle is present above the eye. Females are similar but have a rufous throat and breast, and a less prominent or absent white forehead spot.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, whistled notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee' or 'chip-chip-chip', with variations in tempo and pitch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in central and western Africa, inhabiting countries such as Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, and Angola.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Striking black and white plumage (male), White forehead spot, Small wattle above the eye, Active foraging behavior in forest understory
Description
The White-spotted Wattle-eye is a small, active passerine bird of African forests. Males exhibit striking black and white plumage with a distinctive white forehead spot, while females have rufous on the throat and breast. They are typically found foraging for insects in the forest understory.
