The Uluguru bushshrike is a species of rare bird occurring only in the Uluguru Mountains in Morogoro Region of Tanzania. It was discovered in 1926 and was known to be confined to a single site in the Uluguru North Forest Reserve of about 84 km2. However, in March 2007, a team of Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania discovered its presence in the Uluguru South Forest Reserve in Morogoro Region. There are an estimated 1200 pairs remaining and the population trend is stable.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains (Uluguru Mountains), Tanzania
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary montane evergreen forest, especially in dense midstory and canopy layers. It favors steep slopes, ridges, and gullies with tangled vine growth and mossy trunks. Birds are typically found in intact forest away from heavy disturbance and only rarely at edges. Territories are maintained in well-shaded, closed-canopy habitat where the species forages methodically.
Altitude Range
1200–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Uluguru bushshrike is restricted to Tanzania’s Uluguru Mountains and was once thought to occur only in the north until surveys in 2007 confirmed it also in the south. It is shy, often detected by its rich, whistled duets exchanged between mates. Habitat loss from agriculture and wood extraction remains its main threat, but current surveys suggest a relatively stable small population.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered as solitary individuals or in pairs that defend year-round territories. Pairs maintain close contact and frequently duet, especially at dawn. Nesting is presumed to be a cup placed in dense vegetation, with both sexes likely involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich series of clear, whistled notes often delivered as antiphonal duets between mates. Calls include sharp, carrying phrases that penetrate dense forest, interspersed with softer contact notes.
