The acacia pied barbet or pied barbet is a species of bird in the family Lybiidae which is native to southern Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across arid to semi‑arid savannas and thornveld dominated by Vachellia (acacia) and Senegalia trees, as well as dry woodland edges. It is common in farmlands, orchards, suburban gardens, and towns where suitable trees are present. The species avoids dense, closed-canopy forests and truly treeless deserts but uses riverine strips within dry regions. It is found in countries including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and parts of southern Angola.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The acacia pied barbet is a cavity‑nester that excavates its own nest holes in dead wood and sometimes in utility poles or fence posts. Pairs often duet with a ringing, repetitive call that carries far through thornveld. It adapts well to gardens and orchards and is a frequent host to brood parasites like the greater honeyguide.
T. l. centralis with beetle prey in Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with an undulating path
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs that maintain year-round territories. Both sexes excavate nest cavities and share incubation and chick-rearing. Clutches are laid in holes in dead branches, and nests may be targeted by honeyguides for brood parasitism.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, rhythmic, two-note piping that is often delivered as a duet between mates, carrying over long distances. Calls include sharp ticking notes and a rolling churr when agitated.
Plumage
Compact, pied pattern with black-and-white head and mottled olive-brown upperparts. Underparts are whitish with fine dark streaking on the flanks and a faint yellowish wash on the throat. Feathers are dense and slightly fluffy, giving a thickset, barbet-like profile.
Diet
Eats a mix of fruits (figs, berries, and cultivated orchard fruit) and invertebrates such as beetles, ants, termites, and caterpillars. It occasionally takes nectar and sap, especially during dry periods when fruit is scarce. Forages methodically in the canopy and mid-story, gleaning from leaves, twigs, and bark, and sometimes hawking short distances after flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in thorny acacia woodland, savanna edges, and suburban gardens with fruiting trees. Often visits orchards and bird feeders offering fruit or suet.
