The black bee-eater is a species of bird in the family Meropidae. It is native to the African tropical rainforest where it is found at the edges of the rainforest and in secondary woodland.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Guineo-Congolian rainforest belt from West Africa through the Congo Basin east to western Uganda and northwestern Angola. It favors edges of lowland tropical rainforest, secondary woodland, riverine gallery forest, and clearings with scattered tall trees. Birds often hunt from exposed perches along forest tracks, plantations, and canopy gaps. Nesting typically requires friable earthen banks for tunneling.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black bee-eater is a striking forest-edge specialist that hawks bees, wasps, and other flying insects on the wing. Like other bee-eaters, it deftly removes stingers by bashing prey against a perch before swallowing. It nests in burrows excavated in earthen banks or road cuttings, with both adults sharing incubation and chick-rearing. Its preference for forest clearings and secondary growth helps it persist in mosaics of disturbed habitat.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small parties, perching conspicuously before sallying after insects. Monogamous pairs excavate nest tunnels in sandy or clay banks, often along roads or stream edges. Both sexes incubate and feed the young, and family groups may linger together after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, rolling trills and liquid, buzzy notes typical of bee-eaters. Vocalizations are given frequently in flight and from exposed perches, aiding group cohesion.
