The western nicator is a species of songbird in the family Nicatoridae.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen forests from Upper Guinea west Africa eastward into parts of the Congo Basin. Favors primary rainforest, mature secondary growth, and dense riverine thickets, often near forest edges and clearings. Commonly keeps to the midstory and lower canopy, moving through tangles and lianas. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but remains most frequent in extensive forest blocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The western nicator is a robust, forest-dwelling songbird of West and Central Africa and is the type member of the small family Nicatoridae. It was once placed with bulbuls but is now recognized as distinct, noted for its powerful, hook-tipped bill and loud, fluty whistles. Despite being elusive in dense foliage, it is often detected by its far-carrying, patterned songs and duets.
A western nicator in Uganda
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the midstory. Pairs defend small territories and perform duets. The nest is typically a neat cup placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation; both sexes are thought to share parental duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, rich series of fluty whistles and ringing phrases delivered from concealed perches. Phrases are often repeated in patterns, and pairs may duet antiphonally. Harsh scolds and chattering notes are also given when agitated.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler yellowish underparts and a cleaner, slightly paler throat; plumage is smooth and unbarred, giving a uniformly green look above. The overall impression is of a solid, olive songbird with subtle contrast between back and belly.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, gleaned from leaves and twigs. Will also snatch larger prey from tangles and occasionally hawk short distances after flying insects. Supplements diet with small berries and other soft fruits, especially when insect prey is less abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the forest midstory and lower canopy, working methodically through dense vines and foliage. Frequently uses edges, gaps, and riverine thickets where prey is concentrated, but rarely ventures into open areas for long.
