The yellow-throated nicator is a species of songbird in the family Nicatoridae.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
Yellow-throated Nicator
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.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a clean, bright yellow throat contrasting the face and upper breast; paler, whitish to pale yellowish underparts toward the belly. Feathers are smooth and unpatterned on the back, with subtle shading rather than bold markings.
Diet
Primarily hunts insects such as beetles, caterpillars, orthopterans, and spiders gleaned from leaves and twigs. It may sally a short distance to snatch prey, and occasionally takes small fruits or berries when available. Foraging is methodical, focused on dense foliage where prey is abundant.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the understory and midstory of mature and secondary rainforest. Also works along vine tangles, forest edges, and riparian thickets where insect activity is high.
