The green-backed honeybird, also known as the eastern green-backed honeyguide, green-backed honeyguide and slender-billed honeyguide, is a species of bird in the family Indicatoridae. It is a nest parasite of the Northern yellow white-eye.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in open woodlands, miombo and mopane savannas, riverine thickets, and wooded edges. It favors areas with scattered trees and scrub where host species are common. Often keeps to the canopy and mid-story, moving quietly through foliage. Found from lowlands up to moderate elevations, and can persist in lightly altered habitats and farmlands with trees.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small honeyguide is a brood parasite that lays its eggs in the nests of other species, notably the Northern Yellow White-eye. The inconspicuous, olive-toned plumage helps it skulk through canopies while watching host nests. As with other honeyguides, its chicks hatch early and can outcompete or harm host young, ensuring their own survival.
Temperament
solitary and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, quietly foraging high in trees. It is an obligate brood parasite and does not build its own nest. Females monitor host nests and lay quickly when conditions are suitable. Courtship is subdued, with soft calls and short chases through the canopy.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of seee and tsee notes, often given from the canopy. Calls are insect-like and can be easily overlooked in ambient woodland noise.
