The grey longbill is a species of Old World warbler in the family Macrosphenidae. It is native to African tropical rainforest.
Region
Guineo-Congolian rainforest (West and Central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen forests from West Africa through Central Africa, including primary and well-developed secondary growth. It favors dense understorey, vine tangles, thickets along forest edges, and riparian forest. It can persist in selectively logged forest if sufficient shrub and liana cover remains. Generally avoids open habitats and heavily degraded areas.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grey longbill is a shy understorey insectivore of the Guineo-Congolian rainforests, often detected by its thin, high-pitched calls before it is seen. Its long, slightly decurved bill is adapted for probing into leaf clusters, vines, and bark crevices for hidden prey. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks, moving rapidly through dense tangles a few meters above the ground.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense undergrowth
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and commonly associates with mixed-species foraging flocks. Likely monogamous; nests are placed low in dense vegetation where cover is thick. Territorial calling is frequent but birds often remain concealed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched whistles and brief, tinkling trills delivered from cover. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy notes used to keep contact while moving through vines and shrubs.
Plumage
Plain grey to grey-brown above with paler grey underparts and a slightly paler throat; overall uniform and unmarked. Feathers appear soft and sleek, with minimal streaking or patterning.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods such as insects, spiders, and larvae, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles. Uses its long bill to probe into curled leaves and bark crevices for concealed prey. Occasionally takes small berries when insect prey is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the shaded understorey of primary and mature secondary forest, especially in liana-rich thickets and along forest margins and streams. Often moves methodically a few meters above ground, frequently in mixed-species parties.
