Yellow-throated Longclaw
NameYellow-throated Longclaw
Common NameYellow-throated Longclaw
Scientific NameMacronyx croceus
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)52.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a bright yellow throat and breast, bordered by a broad black gorget. The crown and upperparts are heavily streaked brown and blackish, with streaked flanks. It features a white supercilium and moustachial stripe, and reddish-orange legs. A key feature is its unusually long hind claw.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a clear, melodious, and often repeated 'twee-twee-twee' or 'swee-swee-swee', frequently delivered from a prominent perch or in a display flight. It also has various chirps and alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia, and south through central Africa to Angola, Zambia, and South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow throat and breast, Prominent black gorget, Streaked brown upperparts, Long hind claw, Reddish-orange legs, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Yellow-throated Longclaw is a striking grassland bird known for its vibrant yellow underparts and distinctive black gorget. It is typically found walking on the ground, foraging for insects in open grassy habitats across sub-Saharan Africa.
