The gorgeous bushshrike is a species of bird in the family Malaconotidae. It is also known as the four-coloured bushshrike. Some use the name gorgeous bushshrike for the subspecies Telophorus viridis viridis only.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in dense woodland, coastal and riverine thickets, and forest edges. Prefers tangled undergrowth, vine tangles, and secondary growth where it can forage under cover. Found from lowland coastal belts inland along moist valleys and well-wooded slopes. Often uses ecotones between evergreen forest and woodland, including gardens and plantations with thick understory. Avoids open savanna lacking shrubby cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the four-coloured bushshrike, this striking forest-edge bird is famous for its rich, antiphonal duets between mates. It keeps to dense thickets and is more often heard than seen, flashing vivid colors when it hops into brief view. Some authorities restrict the name 'gorgeous bushshrike' to the southern subspecies T. v. viridis. It is generally common where suitable cover persists.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs that maintain territories year-round. Pairs communicate with responsive duets and move quietly through dense understory. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low to mid-level in thick shrubs or vines, with 2–3 eggs typical. The species is secretive at the nest and relies on cover for protection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles often delivered as antiphonal duets, with one bird answering the other in rapid succession. Calls include mellow piping notes and sharper chacks when agitated.
