GAMBIA BIRD SPECIES

Oriole Warbler

Hypergerus atriceps

Overview

The Oriole Warbler is a distinctive West African songbird: large for a warbler, boldly coloured and gifted with a rich, musical voice. It is often heard from dense vegetation before it is seen.

Identification

The bird has a black head, yellow underparts and olive-green upperparts, with a long graduated tail and a sturdy bill. Its size and deliberate movements can suggest a small oriole.

Habitat and behaviour

It inhabits tangled woodland, riverine thickets, mangrove edges, gardens and dense secondary growth. Pairs forage through low and middle vegetation for insects and may remain concealed while delivering loud, varied phrases.

Birdwatching in The Gambia

The species is widespread in suitable cover across The Gambia, including many coastal birding sites and wooded habitats inland. Dawn is an excellent time to listen for territorial song.

Field note

Pause at dense thickets instead of walking past them. Lamin Jobaate can recognize the many song variations, locate the singer and help visitors wait for a clean view at a natural opening.

Plan your birdwatching tour: Ask Lamin Jobaate about a private itinerary for this species and The Gambia’s other outstanding birds.