The black scimitarbill, also known as the black wood hoopoe, is a species of bird in the family Phoeniculidae.
Region
Eastern and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits dry savannas, open woodlands, and thornscrub, including acacia and miombo habitats. Often frequents woodland edges, riparian groves, and stands of mature trees with ample cavities. Forages on trunks, branches, and fallen logs, probing under bark and into dead wood. Tolerates lightly disturbed landscapes where large trees persist and may occur in mosaic savanna-farmland edges.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black scimitarbill, sometimes called the black wood hoopoe, is a slender, glossy-black member of the woodhoopoe family (Phoeniculidae). Its long, scimitar-shaped bill is specialized for prying insects from bark and crevices. It nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes and is typically seen alone or in pairs. Vocal and conspicuous when calling, it can otherwise be quite unobtrusive as it forages along trunks and branches.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short undulating flights between trees with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Pairs maintain territories and nest in tree cavities, often reusing suitable holes for multiple seasons. Courtship includes calling duets, tail fanning, and mutual preening.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing chatters and trills interspersed with whistles and clucks. Calls carry well through woodland and are often the first clue to its presence.
