The black boubou, also known as Somali boubou, Erlanger's boubou or coastal boubou, is a medium-size bushshrike. It was split from the tropical boubou as a result of DNA sequence analysis, and this change in status was recognized by the International Ornithological Committee in 2008. Two colour morphs are recognized, a predominantly black one, the black boubou, and an extremely rare black and yellow morph which was formerly considered a separate species, the Bulo Burti boubou. The black boubou is found in Somalia and northern Kenya.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
The black boubou occurs mainly in Somalia and extends into northern Kenya, favoring low, semi-arid landscapes. It inhabits dense acacia thornbush, coastal and inland scrub, and riverine thickets where cover is abundant. It also utilizes overgrown field edges and bushy gardens near settlements. The species is generally sedentary, with pairs defending territories year-round within these habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This species, also called the Somali or Erlanger’s boubou, was split from the tropical boubou after DNA studies and recognized by the IOC in 2008. It is famous for duetting: pairs sing tightly synchronized antiphonal songs from dense cover. A very rare black-and-yellow morph, once described as the Bulo Burti boubou (Laniarius liberatus), is now considered a color morph of this species. It keeps to thorny scrub and riverine thickets, making it more often heard than seen.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between cover
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs that maintain and defend territories throughout the year. Pairs perform coordinated duets and nest low in dense shrubs, building a cup nest concealed in thorny vegetation. Both adults participate in incubation and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, antiphonal duet of whistles and ringing notes, with male and female alternating so closely it can sound like a single bird. Calls include harsh chacks and scolds when alarmed, and mellow whistles during territory advertisement.
Plumage
Predominantly glossy black with a smooth, uniform appearance; some individuals show a small, subtle white wing spot or slight pale edging on the wings. The extremely rare morph shows striking black above with rich yellow underparts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders, gleaned from foliage or taken from the ground. It will also snatch small lizards or other small invertebrates when available. Occasionally samples berries or other soft fruits, especially in the dry season.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense thorn scrub, along bushy river margins, and in tangled hedgerows. Often hunts from low perches, making short sallies to the ground or into nearby vegetation.
