White-crested Helmetshrike

The white-crested helmetshrike (Prionops plumatus) is a medium-sized passerine bird with an extensive range across much of sub-Saharan Africa. It measures approximately 19-23 cm (7.5-9.0 in) in length. This bird is characterized by a distinctive white crest and a yellow fleshy eye-wattle. It has a black and white plumage, where the upperparts, wings, and tail are black, and head, chest and belly are white. It also sports a white band alongside its wings. It is very similar to the grey-crested helmetshrike (Prionops poliolophus), which is found in and around the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya. Besides having a more grey-colored crest (as the name suggests), it also lacks the yellow eye-wattle of the white-crested helmetshrike.

The white-crested helmetshrike inhabits a variety of woodland habitats, especially those with miombo, mopane, and acacia trees. It’s often found in savannas, forest edges, and sometimes in suburban gardens and plantations. It primarily feeds on insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and termites, which it forages for in groups, moving through foliage and probing bark crevices. Its feeding behavior is quite active and coordinated, with group members communicating through a series of calls.

The white-crested helmetshrike is renowned for its intriguing social structure, characterized by group living and cooperative behavior. These birds typically form stable groups of 5 to 12 individuals, which can include both related and unrelated members. Within each group, there is a hierarchy that is observed, though it may not be as rigid as in some other species. Dominant birds often lead the group in activities like foraging and decision-making. Interestingly, all members, regardless of their rank, contribute to the group’s activities, reflecting a more egalitarian social structure compared to other bird species.

Communication is central to their group dynamics, with complex vocalizations used for coordination, especially during foraging and responding to threats. Mutual preening is also common, serving to maintain feathers and strengthen social bonds. These groups are also territorial, defending their areas against other groups to ensure exclusive access to resources.

The breeding season of the white-crested helmetshrike varies geographically, generally coinciding with the rainy season. These birds are cooperative breeders, meaning that a breeding pair is assisted by other group members in nest building, incubating the eggs, and feeding the young. Nests are cup-shaped, built with twigs and leaves, usually in the fork of a tree. The incubation period lasts about 14 to 17 days, with a similar length of time before the fledglings are ready to leave the nest.

The white-crested helmetshrike is widespread and common, and its population is deemed stable. It is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.