Tropical Boubou

Laniarius aethiopicus

Other Names

  Boubou Shrike, Ethiopian Boubou, Bell Shrike   Gonolek d'Abyssinie   Boubouwürger     Klocktörnskata     Bubu tropicale

World: Africa: widespread S and 10°N. Occurs up to 16°N in Ethiopia. Absent from the Congo basin and arid areas of eastern Somalia.

Kenya: Common in dense bush, wooded and forest areas in higher rainfall regions. Absent from the arid northern areas.

Although difficult to spot and photograph the Tropical Boubou is easily identified from its call. The birds perform a duet which has a very distinctive 2 note bell-like quality (hence its alternate name of Bell Shrike). They are generally shy, preferring dense cover and undergrowth however they have become more confiding around human habitation and may feed on the ground in gardens and around lodges in Game Reserves and National Parks. They can be easily distinguished from the other pied fiscals by their posture and habits.