Tit Hylia
The Tit Hylia (Pholidornis rushiae) is one of West Africa’s smallest forest birds, It is also the smallest bird native to Africa! a delicate and easily overlooked presence high in the canopy. Cloaked in soft green tones that mirror surrounding leaves, it moves quietly through fine branches, often betraying its presence only with a thin, high-pitched call. Tiny yet energetic, it forages methodically for insects along twigs and foliage, rewarding patient observation rather than quick glances.
Strongly associated with mature forest, the Tit Hylia favours dense woodland where its subtle plumage provides near-perfect camouflage. Its unobtrusive behaviour and preference for shaded, leafy habitats make sightings brief but memorable, especially for those willing to pause and watch carefully.
This photograph was taken from the canopy walkway in Kakum National Park, Ghana — one of the highest and most exhilarating canopy walks in Africa. Suspended high above the forest floor, the walkway offers a rare perspective into the upper levels of the rainforest, where birds like the Tit Hylia spend much of their lives. Photographing such a small, active species from such a high canopy added an extra layer of challenge, making the encounter all the more rewarding.
Tit Hylia
The Tit Hylia (Pholidornis rushiae) is one of West Africa’s smallest forest birds, It is also the smallest bird native to Africa! a delicate and easily overlooked presence high in the canopy. Cloaked in soft green tones that mirror surrounding leaves, it moves quietly through fine branches, often betraying its presence only with a thin, high-pitched call. Tiny yet energetic, it forages methodically for insects along twigs and foliage, rewarding patient observation rather than quick glances.
Strongly associated with mature forest, the Tit Hylia favours dense woodland where its subtle plumage provides near-perfect camouflage. Its unobtrusive behaviour and preference for shaded, leafy habitats make sightings brief but memorable, especially for those willing to pause and watch carefully.
This photograph was taken from the canopy walkway in Kakum National Park, Ghana — one of the highest and most exhilarating canopy walks in Africa. Suspended high above the forest floor, the walkway offers a rare perspective into the upper levels of the rainforest, where birds like the Tit Hylia spend much of their lives. Photographing such a small, active species from such a high canopy added an extra layer of challenge, making the encounter all the more rewarding.