Lybius dubius
Least Concern
With its unmistakable black and red plumage and prominent black bill, the Bearded Barbet is a vibrant resident of West Africa's savannahs and woodlands. Renowned for its robust, echoing calls that resonate through its habitat, this bird is not only a visual spectacle but also an auditory one, adding a unique character to the regions it inhabits.
Males and females have similar plumage
Red
Black, White
Black
Stout
Orange
Pink
Heavy black bill and distinctive red and black plumage
Short and square
25cm to 30cm
Length
40cm to 45cm
Wingspan
80g to 108g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Bearded Barbet perching on a branch
Bearded Barbet resting on the rocks
Bearded Barbet perching in a tree
Portrait of a Beaded Barbet
Loud, repeated 'kow' sounds
Harsh and metallic calls, often repeated in a series
Sharp, loud 'chack' noise
Diurnal, active mostly during the day
Solitary or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups
Territorial, especially during breeding season
Non-migratory
Occasionally joins mixed-species foraging flocks
Fruits, Insects
Forages in trees, often observed feeding on figs
Mostly in the morning and late afternoon
Gleaning from foliage and bark
Diet varies seasonally based on fruit availability
None known
Tree cavities
Uses natural cavities or old woodpecker holes
Varies regionally, typically during the rainy season
Usually one
White and glossy
Medium-sized
2-4 eggs per clutch
14-16 days
About 4 weeks
Both parents participate in feeding and caring for young
Widespread across West Africa
Savannahs, woodland edges, and gardens
Lowland, up to 1500 meters
Non-migratory
Woodland, Savannah
Tropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.
Resident or Present
8
15
12 year(s)
2 year(s)
3 year(s)
Monogamous, pair bonds may last multiple seasons
Little change in appearance with age
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment
Habitat protection in some areas
Population currently stable, but could be affected by habitat changes
Family:
LybiidaePopulation size:
Unknown
Population trend:
Stable
Conservation status:
Least Concern
IUCN Red List
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