Common Scimitarbill

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The Common Scimitarbill is a widespread African bird recognized by its entirely dark, often metallic-glossed body and a strikingly long, slender, decurved bill. Its plumage appears purplish-black to dark green depending on the light.

Where to spot

Broadly distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa. Inhabits a variety of woodlands, savannas, and acacia bushlands.

How to spot

Look for its distinctive long, decurved black bill and slender, dark body as it moves on tree trunks and branches. Its soft, low-pitched 'hoo-hoo-hoo' calls can help locate it.

When to spot

Resident year-round throughout its extensive range. Active during daylight hours, typically seen foraging solitarily or in pairs.

Where to spot

Broadly distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa. Inhabits a variety of woodlands, savannas, and acacia bushlands.

How to spot

Look for its distinctive long, decurved black bill and slender, dark body as it moves on tree trunks and branches. Its soft, low-pitched 'hoo-hoo-hoo' calls can help locate it.

When to spot

Resident year-round throughout its extensive range. Active during daylight hours, typically seen foraging solitarily or in pairs.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Common Scimitarbills are expert foragers, using their specialized bills to extract insects from deep crevices in bark, and sometimes even from under leaf litter on the ground.

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