Black-collared Barbet

The Black-collared Barbet, Lybius torquatus, is a plump and vividly marked bird, native to the diverse landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily recognized by its robust size, typically ranging from 20 to 25 centimeters in length, and its large head adorned with a heavy, bristle-fringed bill characteristic of its genus. The species is named for its striking black collar and head, which contrast with the fiery red plumage surrounding its eyes and beak. Notably, the Black-collared Barbet exhibits morphological variability, with some individuals replacing the red head with a black one. Despite this variation, the species is sexually monomorphic, showing no discernible difference between males and females in either morphology or behavior.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Black-collared Barbet, look for the distinctive black collar and head, as well as the intense red coloration around the eyes and beak. The bird's larger size sets it apart from other barbets. Its plumage may vary, with some individuals displaying a black head instead of the typical red. Both sexes appear identical, making sex differentiation in the field a challenge.

Habitat

The Black-collared Barbet thrives in a variety of habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, including woodlands and savannas, where it can be found inspecting trees and utilizing nest holes for roosting.

Distribution

This species has a wide range across sub-Saharan Africa, from Angola to Kenya, and southward to South Africa, encompassing countries such as Botswana, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Behaviour

The Black-collared Barbet is a gregarious bird, often seen acting in unison with others of its kind to repel intruders. They are known to roost together in groups, sometimes numbering up to 15 individuals in a single nest hole. Their flight is characterized by a direct path and a loud whirring of wings.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Black-collared Barbet is dominated by its antiphonal duets, often described as "too-puddly" or "too-doodle" calls. These duets are synchronized, with one bird singing a note followed by its partner, creating a seamless auditory experience. The birds engage in a greeting ceremony that includes wing-flicking and bowing to each other. In addition to its duets, the barbet produces a variety of calls, including a snarling warning and a loud buzzing.

Breeding

The breeding season for the Black-collared Barbet occurs from December to February, during which time they may engage in more elaborate wing and flight displays as part of their mating rituals.

Similar Species

While the Black-collared Barbet is distinctive in its appearance, it may be confused with other barbet species. However, its larger size, intense coloration, and unique duetting behavior are key differentiators.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Black-collared Barbet is predominantly frugivorous, with a preference for a variety of fruits and vegetables. They are known to visit plantations in search of food, consuming fruits whole and later regurgitating the seeds. Although less frequently, they may also feed on insects, centipedes, lizards, frogs, and geckos.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Black-collared Barbet as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.