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Yellow-throated nicator

Yellow-throated nicator

Wikipedia

The yellow-throated nicator is a species of songbird in the family Nicatoridae.

Distribution

Region

Congo Basin and Central Africa

Typical Environment

Found in lowland tropical rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth across the central African rainforest belt. It favors dense understory and midstory tangles where it forages discreetly. The species tolerates selectively logged and regenerating forests, provided sufficient cover remains. It may also occur along riverine thickets and in forest patches near clearings.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size16–19 cm
Wing Span22–27 cm
Male Weight0.04 kg
Female Weight0.037 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The yellow-throated nicator is a loud-voiced forest songbird of Central Africa, noted for its striking yellow throat and powerful, ringing calls. It often stays hidden in dense foliage, moving methodically through the understory. Pairs may duet, and the species occasionally joins mixed-species flocks.

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Yellow-throated Nicator

Yellow-throated Nicator

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats through dense cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs within dense understory; pairs may maintain territories year-round. It occasionally joins mixed-species flocks moving through midstory layers. Nesting is in a concealed cup within shrubs or low trees, with both parents participating in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Loud, ringing whistles interspersed with rich, chattering phrases. Often delivered as antiphonal duets, especially at dawn and late afternoon, carrying far through the forest.

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