The slender-billed greenbul is a species in the monotypic genus Stelgidillas of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is found in western and central Africa. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from coastal and inland lowland forests to montane zones, inhabiting moist evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, gallery forests, and well-wooded secondary growth. It frequents forest edges, clearings with regrowth, and plantations adjacent to native forest. The species is tolerant of habitat mosaics so long as tree cover and fruiting shrubs are present. It forages mainly in the understory to midstory, occasionally visiting the canopy when trees are fruiting.
Altitude Range
0–2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This species is the sole member of the genus Stelgidillas and is widespread across western and central Africa. Its long, slender, slightly decurved bill helps it glean insects and pick small fruits in the forest midstory. It often joins mixed-species flocks and adapts well to secondary growth and forest edges.
Temperament
shy but active, often concealed in foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, low darts between cover
Social Behavior
Commonly travels in pairs or small groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the forest midstory. Likely monogamous during the breeding season. Builds a small cup nest concealed in dense vegetation, with both adults involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, chattering and whistled notes delivered in brief phrases, often repeated. Calls include thin, sibilant chips and scolds used to maintain contact in flocks.
Plumage
Olive to olive-brown upperparts with paler, yellow-olive underparts and a slightly paler throat. Plumage is fairly plain and soft-textured, with minimal streaking. The overall impression is a slim, drab greenbul accentuated by a narrow, slightly decurved bill.
Diet
Takes small fruits and berries, including figs and other soft fruits, and supplements this with insects and spiders. Gleans prey from leaves and twigs and occasionally makes short sallies to catch disturbed insects. Visits fruiting trees and shrubs regularly and may follow mixed flocks to exploit foraging opportunities.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the understory and midstory of forests, along edges, and in secondary growth where fruiting shrubs are abundant. Also forages in gallery forests and wooded plantations adjacent to native habitats.
