Crimson-Breasted Gonolek
Laniarius atrococcineus
Aves › Passeriformes › Malaconotidae › Laniarius
Conservation status: least_concern
The crimson-breasted shrike or the crimson-breasted gonolek,, or the crimson-breasted boubou, is a southern African bird. It has black upper parts with a white flash on the wing, and bright scarlet underparts. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated it as a "least-concern species".
How To Identify
A small, sturdy passerine bird, typically displaying mottled browns and grays across its body and wings. Males are distinguished by a striking patch of brilliant crimson plumage covering the breast, contrasting sharply with their more subdued overall coloration.
Habitat
It inhabits dense woodland, thornbush, and riverine forests across sub-Saharan Africa, typically in areas with thick understory vegetation.
Behaviour
This species is highly vocal and territorial, often seen in pairs that perform elaborate duetting displays with synchronized calling and posturing to defend their woodland territories.
Native Range
The crimson-breasted gonolek is a southern African bird that occurs in a broad swathe from southern Angola to the Free State province in South Africa and Northern Cape.
Did You Know?
The Crimson-breasted Gonolek is one of Africa's most striking birds, with its brilliant scarlet breast contrasting sharply against its jet-black upperparts. Males and females duet together with loud, distinctive calls that can be heard echoing through woodland at dawn and dusk.
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