Southern Pied-Babbler

The southern pied babbler is a medium-sized cooperatively breeding passerine. Groups range in size from 2-16 adults. The species is sexually monomorphic, with males and females indistinguishable from physical characteristics. Each group comprises a dominant breeding pair that monopolise access to breeding opportunities. Occasional mixed parentage has been observed, but genetic analyses are required to determine to what extent subordinate group members gain parentage. All group members cooperate to help raise the young from a single clutch. Clutch size varies between 2 and 5, with a modal clutch size of three. Cooperative behaviours include: provisioning young , sentinel behaviour, territory border defense, teaching behaviour and babysitting behaviour . The breeding season extends from late-September to early April, although this varies between years and is strongly rain-dependent. Groups can raise up to three successful clutches per breeding season. Average incubation time is 14 days, and average time between

Picture of the Southern Pied-Babbler has been licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike.
Original source: Monkey Boy from Johannesburg, South Africa
Author: Monkey Boy from Johannesburg, South Africa

The Southern Pied-Babbler is classified as Least Concern. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category.

The Southern Pied-babbler (Turdoides bicolor) is a species of bird in the Timaliidae family. It is found in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Its natural habitat is dry savanna. More

Order : Passeriformes
Family : Timaliidae
Genus : Turdoides
Species : bicolor
Authority : (Jardine, 1831)