Mousebirds are a distinct family of birds, exclusive to sub-Saharan Africa, belonging to the order Coliiformes and family Coliidae.
These birds are divided into two main genera and consist of six species. Surprisingly, their closest relatives are cockatoos and parrots, and they’re the only bird order entirely native to Africa.
Named for their mouse-like, hair-textured feathers and their habit of scurrying through vegetation, mousebirds have a unique appearance, characterized by stocky bodies, pointed crests, and long tails. Excluding their tails, they measure around 10 cm in length but can reach up to 38 cm with their tails included.
Habitat and Diet
Mousebirds are found across a range of habitats, from savannas and forests to scrublands and farmland. They primarily consume plant-based foods, including fruits, seeds, nectar, and leaves.
Nesting and Social Behavior
These birds build cup-shaped nests using materials from both plants and animals, typically laying between one and seven eggs per clutch. Mousebirds conserve warmth and energy by roosting together at night, a behavior that enhances their survival in cooler temperatures.
Species of Mousebirds
- Genus Colius
- Red-backed Mousebird (Colius castanotus)
Found in Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this species inhabits woodlands and scrublands. It has brownish-grey feathers with a reddish back and a rough-sounding call. Measuring between 30-38 cm, it’s classified as a species of low concern. - Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus)
Common throughout southern, eastern, and central Africa, the Speckled Mousebird displays a variety of plumage patterns. Known for its harsh “chee” call, this species is one of least concern, with a stable and widespread population. - White-backed Mousebird (Colius colius)
Characterized by a white back and greyish body, the White-backed Mousebird is native to South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. It has a healthy population and is also a species of low concern. - White-headed Mousebird (Colius leucocephalus)
This species, with a silvery-white head and barred plumage, is found in East Africa. Its soft “tet” call and large range contribute to its stable conservation status.
- Red-backed Mousebird (Colius castanotus)
- Genus Urocolius
- Blue-naped Mousebird (Urocolius macrourus)
Found across eastern, western, and parts of central Africa, this species is known for its distinctive blue nape and low-pitched call. Although its population is gradually declining, it remains a species of low conservation concern. - Red-faced Mousebird (Urocolius indicus)
Spanning across southern and central Africa, the Red-faced Mousebird is marked by its red facial skin and soft “ti-wii-wii” call. Despite an unknown population trend, its extensive range keeps it listed as a species of low concern.
- Blue-naped Mousebird (Urocolius macrourus)
Conservation and Adaptability
Mousebirds, though generally stable in population, still face threats like habitat destruction and the pet trade. Yet, their adaptability to human environments has supported population growth in some areas, providing shelter, nesting spaces, and additional food sources.
For anyone visiting Africa, these distinctive birds offer a fascinating look into the continent’s unique avian diversity.
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