Yellow-crowned Gonolek
Passionate about wildlife photography? Find out more about our small-group photography tours at wildlightphotographytours.com
This was the bird that started it all. I heard the yellow-crowned gonolek call and I was immedeatly fascinated with this bird, wondering what bird that was I eventually discovered after chasing it around the neighbourhood then decided it looked so beautiful I needed the equipment to take a decent photo. That was how I got into wildlife photography!
The yellow-crowned gonolek (Laniarius barbarus) is a striking West African bushshrike known for its bold, contrasting colors and secretive behavior. Easily recognized by its vivid yellow crown, black upperparts, and bright red underparts, this species often remains hidden within dense vegetation despite its brilliant plumage. Rather than long flights, it moves quietly through thickets and forest edges, searching for insects and small prey. More often heard than seen, the yellow-crowned gonolek is famous for its rich, duetting calls between pairs, adding a musical presence to the African woodland soundscape. Its dramatic coloration and elusive nature make it a rewarding subject for wildlife photographers.
Calls:
Yellow-crowned Gonolek
Passionate about wildlife photography? Find out more about our small-group photography tours at wildlightphotographytours.com
This was the bird that started it all. I heard the yellow-crowned gonolek call and I was immedeatly fascinated with this bird, wondering what bird that was I eventually discovered after chasing it around the neighbourhood then decided it looked so beautiful I needed the equipment to take a decent photo. That was how I got into wildlife photography!
The yellow-crowned gonolek (Laniarius barbarus) is a striking West African bushshrike known for its bold, contrasting colors and secretive behavior. Easily recognized by its vivid yellow crown, black upperparts, and bright red underparts, this species often remains hidden within dense vegetation despite its brilliant plumage. Rather than long flights, it moves quietly through thickets and forest edges, searching for insects and small prey. More often heard than seen, the yellow-crowned gonolek is famous for its rich, duetting calls between pairs, adding a musical presence to the African woodland soundscape. Its dramatic coloration and elusive nature make it a rewarding subject for wildlife photographers.
Calls: