Grey penduline tit

Introduction: Grey penduline-tits (Anthoscopus caroli) were named after the Swedish naturalist and collector Charles (Carolus (L)) Andersson (1827-1867), noted for his work in Namibia. They can be observed in broad-leaved woodland and sometimes in gardens, in pairs or small family groups.

Distribution: Etosha National Park and other north-eastern Namibian localities.

Diet: Eats insects and probes flowers for nectar.

Description: Black and white plumage, especially on the face and head. Tail and upper wings dark greyish-brown.

Breeding: This species make an ingenious nest. An oval bag made of woven spider web and plant down has a flexible, but collapsible entrance spout with a ridge below that serves as a perch. After the bird opens this ridge with 1 foot, it closes automatically to form a roof over the ledge, creating a 'false' entrance'. Females lay 2 to 8 eggs from August to November and January to February, incubated for up to 19 days.

Size: 9cm.

Weight: 6kg.