Retzs helmet shrike

Introduction: Retz's helmet-shrike (Prionops retzii) is also known as the red-billed helmet-shrike. This species was named after Anders Adolf Retzius, a Swedish anatomist who lived from 1796 to 1860. This species are found in tall, moist deciduous woodland, often restricted to riverine woodland in drier regions. Groups of up to 15 are common.

Distribution: Northern and eastern Namibia only.

Diet: Searches for prey on branches, at times hanging upside down by feet. Eats caterpillars, grasshoppers, butterflies, beetles, moths and spiders.

Description: Bluish-black forehead, crown, nape, sides of neck and upper back. Blackish-brown rump with a black tail.

Breeding: Group members build a shallow cup built of grasses, lichens and strips of bark, bound with spider web. 3 to 5 eggs are laid and incubated for up to 20 days.

Size: 22cm.

Weight: 44g.