About the Tropical Boubou
The tropical boubou or bell shrike is a medium-sized passerine bird of sub-Saharan Africa. This very diverse "species" with its numerous subspecies and morphs has since long posed a taxonomic problem, and recent research suggests it is a cryptic species complex that has now been split into several species.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The tropical boubou is fairly large for its family (bushshrikes), measuring 23–25 cm in length. Its weight can vary between about 38-70 g, but typically adults weigh between 50 and 60 g. Females are on average a bit smaller than males, but individual variation is so large that for most practical purposes the sexes seem to be of identical size. The wing measures about 98 mm on average (between 85 and 110), the tail is a mere two millimetres longer both on average and as regards variation. Voice: This species is heard more often than seen, but its calls often help to locate it visually. To vocalize they move higher off the ground than during their usual activities, and may perch on an exposed site. They also nod their head and bow their body when calling, making them even conspicuous sometimes.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
What the Tropical Boubou sounds like
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Liberia.
When to see it
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Crimson-breasted ShrikeLaniarius atrococcineusThe sexes have the same colouration and are indistinguishable from each other.
Slate-colored BoubouLaniarius funebrisThe slate-colored boubou or slate-coloured boubou is a species of bird in the family Malaconotidae.
Yellow-crowned GonolekLaniarius barbarusThe yellow-crowned gonolek is 22 cm (8.7 in) long with a long tail and short wings.
Learn the Tropical Boubou for real
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