The naked-faced barbet is a bird species in the family Lybiidae. It used to be placed in the family Bucconidae (puffbirds), which has been split up; alternatively, it may be included in a vastly expanded Ramphastidae (toucans).
Region
Central Africa
Typical Environment
The naked-faced barbet is widespread across the Congo Basin and adjacent lowland forests, occurring in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic. It inhabits primary and secondary tropical rainforest, forest edges, and riverine woodland. The species readily uses disturbed habitats with fruiting trees, including clearings and plantations. It forages from the mid-story to the canopy and sometimes descends to forest edges and gardens.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This African barbet is notable for its largely featherless face, a trait thought to help keep sticky fruit residues from matting facial feathers. Pairs and small groups engage in loud, rhythmic duets. They often roost communally in tree cavities and can excavate their own nest holes in soft, decayed wood.
Naked-faced Barbed
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small parties, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees. Pairs maintain close contact with coordinated calls and may nest colonially in soft, decayed trunks. They excavate or enlarge cavities for nesting and often roost communally in similar holes. Both sexes participate in nest maintenance and cavity defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The call is a repetitive series of churring, grating notes delivered in duets, with partners alternating or overlapping rhythmically. Calls carry well through the forest and may be accompanied by bill-clicking. Vocalizations can intensify near nest or roost sites.
