The white-plumed helmetshrike (Prionops plumatus), which is also referred to as the white helmetshrike, belongs to the Vanga family Vangidae. This charming passerine bird was originally classified under the Malaconotidae family.
Geographical Distribution and Natural Habitat:
The species can be observed across a wide range of countries in Africa including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This creature thrives in a variety of natural habitats such as subtropical or tropical dry forests, dry savanna, moist savanna, and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland.
Characteristics:
The bird is known for its sociable nature and is typically seen in lively groups, constantly in motion as they search for food in trees or on the earth. As they explore their surroundings, they communicate enthusiastically with each other through loud chattering.
Diet:
The creature primarily indulges in consuming invertebrates, particularly moths and caterpillars. In the warm season, it typically searches for food high up in the treetops, while in the cold season, it tends to procure a larger portion of its sustenance from the lower regions of the ground.
Reproduction:
The species engages in a harmonious and cooperative breeding behavior, where a committed pair receives support from their siblings and/or offspring from the previous breeding season. This dynamic creates a cohesive group structure. In the event of the demise of one breeding partner, their sibling steps in to fill the void. These groups establish territories and actively protect themselves against rival groups and potential threats, effectively communicating their presence through vocal displays.
No cause for concern, actually quite prevalent and ordinary.