The red-shouldered vanga is a member of the vanga family endemic to south-west Madagascar.
Region
Southwest Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in a narrow belt of dry spiny thicket and dry deciduous scrub in the southwest, including areas near Toliara and the Mikea Forest. It favors dense, thorny understory and edges of low dry forest, often in degraded scrub as long as some native structure remains. The species uses thickets with Euphorbia and Didierea and will forage from near ground level up to the midstory. Protected pockets such as around Tsimanampetsotsa support small populations, but the range is highly fragmented.
Altitude Range
0–300 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Described to science only in the late 1990s, the red-shouldered vanga has one of the most restricted ranges among Madagascar’s vangas. It is threatened by habitat loss from charcoal production and clearing of spiny thicket. Males are distinguished from the similar red-tailed vanga by a bold rufous shoulder patch and different vocalizations.
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories in dense thicket. Pairs are likely monogamous and remain together through the breeding season. Nests are placed low to mid-height in shrubs or small trees, with both adults participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles interspersed with softer notes. Calls include sharp chips and scolding churrs given when alarmed or during territorial encounters.
