The Pied Babbler is a striking cooperative breeder with a distinct black and white plumage, making it easily identifiable. These highly social birds live in groups and are well-known for their complex communication and alarm calls. They are a common sight in the dry habitats of Southern Africa.
Where to spot
Native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, including Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. They prefer savannas, open woodlands, and scrublands, particularly those with scattered trees and bushes.
How to spot
Look for noisy groups moving through the vegetation or foraging on the ground. Listen for their diverse range of calls, from soft chatters to loud alarm notes. Their distinct black-and-white pattern is a key identifier.
When to spot
Active year-round, but generally most visible and vocal during the cooler morning and late afternoon hours. During the breeding season, their activities around the nest can be particularly engaging.
Where to spot
Native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, including Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. They prefer savannas, open woodlands, and scrublands, particularly those with scattered trees and bushes.
How to spot
Look for noisy groups moving through the vegetation or foraging on the ground. Listen for their diverse range of calls, from soft chatters to loud alarm notes. Their distinct black-and-white pattern is a key identifier.
When to spot
Active year-round, but generally most visible and vocal during the cooler morning and late afternoon hours. During the breeding season, their activities around the nest can be particularly engaging.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Pied Babblers exhibit fascinating sentinel behavior; one bird will perch on an elevated position to act as a lookout, warning the foraging group below of predators, sometimes even sharing food with sentinels.
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