The white-headed wood hoopoe is a species of bird in the family Phoeniculidae.
Region
Afrotropical montane belt of West to East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs discontinuously in montane and submontane forests and forest edges from the Cameroon–Nigeria highlands through the Albertine Rift to the highlands of Kenya and northern Tanzania. It frequents mature evergreen forest, secondary woodland, gallery forest, and wooded farmland with tall trees. Birds often forage along trunks and larger branches, probing bark crevices and epiphytes. Availability of cavity-bearing trees is an important habitat feature.
Altitude Range
900–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-headed wood hoopoe is a cooperative breeder that lives in noisy family groups, often seen moving together along trunks and branches. It nests in natural tree cavities and will vigorously defend territories with chorused calls and tail-waving displays. Its striking white head contrasts with a glossy dark body, making it one of Africa’s most distinctive woodhoopoes. Although adaptable to secondary growth, it relies on wooded habitats with large trees for nesting.
Phoeniculus bollei. Museum specimen
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees; undulating, low forest-level flights
Social Behavior
Lives in cohesive groups that engage in cooperative breeding, with helpers assisting at the nest. Pairs nest in tree cavities and maintain year-round territories. Groups roost communally and perform social preening and chorused displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, rollicking chorus of cackles and chatters, often delivered by several group members at once. Also gives sharp contact calls while foraging.
