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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