The cinnamon-chested bee-eater is a species of bird in the family Meropidae. It is mainly native to the Albertine Rift montane forests and the East African montane forests of East Africa, in the regions surrounding Lake Victoria.
Region
East African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs around the Albertine Rift and East African montane forests, including parts of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, western Kenya, northern Tanzania, and eastern DR Congo. Prefers forest edges, clearings, riverine woodland, and adjacent farmlands or plantations such as coffee. Frequently uses open perches along forest margins, roadsides, and riparian corridors. It tolerates lightly modified landscapes provided nearby wooded cover remains.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This medium-sized bee-eater favors highland forest edges and clearings around the Albertine Rift and East African montane regions. Like other bee-eaters, it deftly removes stingers from bees and wasps by bashing them against a perch before swallowing. It often perches conspicuously and sallies out to catch flying insects, returning to the same lookout. Small colonies dig nesting burrows in earthen banks during the breeding season.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small groups along forest edges and clearings. Nests are excavated in earthen banks or road cuttings, typically in small colonies. Pairs are monogamous, and helpers from previous broods may assist at the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of soft, rolling trills and liquid, ringing ‘prree’ notes. Calls are far-carrying and exchanged frequently during foraging sallies and social interactions.
