Van Dam's Vanga

Xenopirostris damii

Large, big-billed vanga with white underparts. Males have a black hood, and females only a black cap. Rare Madagascar endemic that is found very locally in dry deciduous forest in the north and northwest. Can be found solo or in pairs, sometimes in flocks with other vangas. Most common vocalizations are long, penetrating whistles and a short scold. Separated from Lafresnaye’s and Pollen’s Vangas by range. Separated from Madagascar Cuckooshrike by much larger bill and white rather than gray underparts. 

Identification

Van Dam's vanga (Xenopirostris damii) is a species of bird in the family Vangidae. It is endemic to Madagascar. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests. Males may be identified by their black hood whereas females have only a black cap.

Taxonomy

Genus: Xenopirostris; Family: Vangidae; Order: Passeriformes.

Scientific name
Xenopirostris damii
Authority
Schlegel, 1865
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Vangidae
Genus
Xenopirostris

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Behavior

Migration pattern: Resident species.

Conservation

Population trend: declining.

Population trend
declining

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

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