The speckled mousebird is the largest species of mousebird, as well as one of the most common. It is found throughout most of Central, Eastern and Southern Africa.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa in a broad range of semi-open habitats. Prefers savanna, thornscrub, forest edges, riparian thickets, and agricultural areas with hedgerows and fruiting trees. Common in suburban gardens and orchards where it exploits cultivated fruits. Avoids dense interior forests and the most arid deserts but uses mosaics with scattered shrubs and trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The speckled mousebird is the largest and most widespread of the mousebirds, often seen in small, chattering groups. It is highly acrobatic, clambering and hanging upside down to reach fruits and leaves. Groups roost communally, huddling tightly to conserve warmth. Its tolerance of gardens and orchards makes it a common sight near human settlements across much of sub-Saharan Africa.
Subspecies C. s. leucotis (right), and C. s. affinis (left); illustration by Joseph Smit, 1892
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; generally weak flier that prefers clambering
Social Behavior
Typically found in small flocks that forage and move together while maintaining contact calls. Pairs breed within groups, building a cup nest of twigs lined with plant fibers. Communal roosting is common, with birds huddling closely on branches. Some populations show cooperative tendencies, with helpers occasionally assisting at nests.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of soft chatters, squeaks, and high-pitched trills used to maintain group cohesion. Alarm calls are sharper, scolding notes given when disturbed.
