The grey-crowned tetraka, formerly known as the grey-crowned greenbul, is a species of Malagasy warbler in the family Bernieridae. It is found only in eastern and northern Madagascar.
Region
Eastern and northern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests along Madagascar’s eastern and northern slopes. Prefers dense understory, forest edges, ravines, and areas with thickets or bamboo. It forages close to the ground to mid-levels, often near streams and in tangled vegetation. It is absent from dry western habitats and heavily degraded open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grey-crowned tetraka, formerly called the grey-crowned greenbul, is a Malagasy warbler in the family Bernieridae and occurs only in Madagascar’s humid forests. It is a shy, understory specialist that often joins mixed-species flocks. Habitat loss in eastern Madagascar’s rainforests likely affects local populations.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are likely placed low in shrubs or dense vegetation, with breeding during the rainy season typical for eastern Malagasy forest birds. Territorial songs and calls maintain pair bonds and spacing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched notes and short trills delivered from low perches within dense foliage. Calls are soft ‘tsip’ or ‘tsek’ contact notes used while foraging and moving with mixed flocks.
