The spot-flanked barbet is a species of bird in the family Lybiidae. It is found in Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
Region
East and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from South Sudan and Uganda south through Rwanda, Burundi, western Kenya and Tanzania to eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northern Zambia. Favors wooded savanna, mixed woodland, forest edges, riparian thickets, and well-treed farmland and gardens. It avoids dense closed-canopy forest interiors but uses clearings and secondary growth. Often found near fruiting figs and along hedgerows or scattered acacias. It tolerates moderate human presence where mature trees persist.
Altitude Range
500–2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This East African barbet is named for the bold dark spots along its flanks. Pairs often perform synchronized duets that carry far through woodland. Like many barbets, it excavates its own nest cavity in soft or dead wood. It readily visits fruiting trees in farms and gardens, making it a familiar bird where suitable trees remain.
Spot-flanked Barbet - Masai Mara, Kenya
Temperament
pair-forming and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Pairs maintain territories year-round and often duet from exposed perches. They excavate nest cavities in dead limbs or soft trunks, with both sexes participating in digging and incubation. Fledglings may accompany adults for some time after leaving the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rhythmic, repetitive duet of churring trills and hollow notes exchanged between mates. Calls include sharp tuk and rattling series that accelerate, carrying well through open woodland.
