Red-rumped Tinkerbird

About the Red-rumped Tinkerbird

The red-rumped tinkerbird (Pogoniulus atroflavus) is a small bird species in the Lybiidae family. It is widely distributed across the tropical rainforests of mid-western Africa. This species is monotypic, with no recognized subspecies. Measuring approximately 12–13 cm in length and weighing 14–21.5 g, the Red-rumped Tinkerbird is noted for its distinct coloration—a yellow chest, black head and back, and red lower back or rump that gives the species its name. The wings are black with yellow-tipped feathers, and younger birds tend to display duller plumage with a yellowish bill.

The species is closely related to other members of the genus Pogoniulus, including P. bilineatus, P. pusillus, and P. chrysoconus. The Red-rumped Tinkerbird lives in mangrove forests, forest clearings, plantations, and grasslands. Red Rumped birds are typically found at elevations below 800 m, however in certain parts of West Africa, they can be found at up to 1,550 m of elevation. The species is distributed throughout mid-west Africa, where it occupies tropical and subtropical forested regions, and is lower rank on the food chain. Wikipedia →