Wildlife Trust
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BLACK-CHEEKED LOVEBIRD

Agapornis nigrigenis

Thought to be the rarest species of parrot in Africa, these small birds were captured for the pet trade in huge numbers in the early part of the last century.

Interesting fact: Most of the birds in UK zoos can be traced back to the original flock from Bristol zoo.

Habitat & threats

The Black-cheeked lovebird inhabits deciduous woodland where there is a permanent supply of surface water. They are listed as vulnerable with a small and declining population that is suffering habitat loss. This is caused by boreholes diverting water for man's usage and less annual rainfall which reduces the amount of surface water in their range. Natural predators include snakes and birds of prey.

Diet

They feed mainly at ground level on annual grass seeds and other vegetable crops such as corn, sorghum and millet, they also feed on insect larvae.

Breeding and social dynamics

These birds can be seen in flocks of over 800 individuals although smaller flocks are more common. They breed well in captivity and are able to have more than one clutch per season. The female builds an elaborate nest and lays 2-6 eggs. Youngsters fledge between 30-44 days after an incubation of 16-24 days. Both the male and female will incubate the eggs.

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NORTHERN WHITE-FACED OWL

Ptilopsis leucotis

These nocturnal owls are very well known for their ability to "transform" their shape. If faced with a threat they can elongate their bodies and contract their plumage, making themselves taller and thinner – a little like a branch of a tree.

Interesting fact:

Contrary to popular belief, owls cannot turn their heads all the way round. They do, however, have long, flexible necks, which mean the head can be rotated through 270°, almost all the way round!

Habitat & threats

Thorn scrub and savannah woodland. The population are considered stable although as with all African bird species, loss of habitat remains a concern. Like the majority of owl species they have very few predators however chicks are preyed upon by snakes.

Diet

They prey on insects, birds and rodents (up to small rat size).

Breeding and social dynamics

They live either singly or in pairs. The female will lay a clutch of 2 or 3 eggs in the old stick-nests of many other bird species, including small raptors such as goshawks and kites - or even herons, dove or crow's nests. If these are not available, they will nest in natural tree holes. The 30 day incubation is mainly by the female, although the male may assist. Young chicks will start to fly at roughly 33 days, leaving the nest area two weeks thereafter.

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BLUE-THROATED CONURE

Pyrrhura cruentata

Formerly common throughout much of south-east Brazil, the Blue-throated conure’s range has become highly fragmented and distribution is now isolated to about 20 known areas; these are generally restricted to reserves.

Habitat & threats

It inhabits the canopy of lowland humid forest, much of which is disappearing very rapidly due to expanding plantations. Natural predators are limited to snakes and nest robbing mammals.

Diet

Flocks of these parakeets can be observed at forest edges or in the canopy, feeding on the seeds and fruits of a variety of secondary forest trees.

Breeding and social dynamics

A highly social bird, they form flocks when feeding. Breeding occurs from September to December when two to four eggs are normally laid in a nest within a tree cavity. The eggs are incubated for 22 to 25 days and the nesting period that follows lasts around 45 days.

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