The southern boubou is a bushshrike. Though these passerine birds and their relations were once included with true shrikes in the Laniidae, they are not closely related to that family.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in southern Africa, especially in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, southern Mozambique, and parts of Zimbabwe and Botswana. Favors dense shrubbery, forest edges, riverine thickets, coastal bush, and suburban gardens with ample cover. Often keeps low to the ground or within tangled vegetation, moving unobtrusively. It adapts well to modified landscapes provided there is thick understory.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The southern boubou is a bushshrike of dense thickets and gardens, famous for its rich, antiphonal duets between mates. It often remains concealed in vegetation, revealing itself more by voice than by sight. Formerly grouped with true shrikes (Laniidae), it is now placed in Malaconotidae.
Nest in a Euphorbia tree
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in territorial pairs throughout the year. Pairs perform close-contact duets and maintain territories with frequent vocal displays. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs; both parents contribute to chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, melodious whistles delivered in coordinated male–female duets, often with antiphonal timing. Calls include sharp chaks and scolding notes when alarmed. Song carries well from cover and is often the first clue to the bird’s presence.
