The bare-cheeked babbler is a passerine bird in the family Leiothrichidae and is native to arid savannas of southwestern Africa, specifically northwestern Namibia and southwestern Angola[2][3]. It is known for its brown feathers and the bare skin on its cheeks [3][4]. The species is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and is a commonly found local bird[2].
The species was first described in 1865 by Gustav Hartlaub as Crateropus gymnogenys and later reassigned to Turdoides[4][5]. It is classified to the family Leiothrichidae, known as the laughingthrushes and allies, which is a group recognized for its social living and unique vocals[4]. The bare-cheeked babbler is identified as having two different species, the gymnogenys in Angola and the kaokensis in Namibia but most authorities regard the species as one due to minimal variation [3][4].
Description
Adults measure 23–25 cm (9–10 in) in length and weigh roughly 60–70 g (2.1–2.5 oz) [3]. Their upperparts are a medium brown, have gray or white underparts, and a light gray crown [3]. The bare bluish gray facial skin on the cheeks and the yellow eyes are the most distinctive features. They have a bill that is dark and slightly curved for searching through litter and soil [3][4]. The sexes hold a similar appereance. The juveniles have duller colors and less prominent facial skin patches than that of the adults[3].
Distribution and habitat
This species is near-endemic to southwestern Africa and is confined mainly to northwestern Namibia and bordering parts of Angola[2][5]. It favors Mopane woodlands, dry thorn scrub, and rocky semi-desert up to about 1,500 m (4,900 ft) elevation [2][3]. The bare-cheeked babbler is non-migratory as it maintains permanent territories and resides year-round in family groups [2][5]. In Namibia, it is especially common in the Kunene Region and Etosha National Park[5].
Behavior and Ecology
Bare-cheeked babblers live in family groups of 6–12 birds [3][4]. They are highly vocal, they produce harsh “babbles” that help maintain group cohesion and defend territories [4]. They forage on the ground looking through leaf litter for insects, spiders, and small arthropods. They occasionally are seen eating seeds and berries in the dry season [3][4]. Groups coordinate defense against predators through calls and mobbing behavior [4].
Breeding
Breeding takes place during the rainy season (November–January)[3][5]. Nests are cup-shaped, made of coarse grass and plant fibers, and placed 1–3 m (3–10 ft) above ground in dense shrubs or Mopane trees [3]. Clutches usually contain 2–4 eggs. Cooperative breeding is typical, the older offspring will watch the newly hatched offspring until they are old enough to defend themselves [4][5].
Conservation status
The IUCN classifies the species as Least Concern. They have a stable population and have a large range [2]. Their main threats include overgrazing and habitat loss, but much of its habitat lies in protected areas, supporting long-term stability [5].
Collar, N. J. & Robson, C. 2007. Family Timaliidae (Babblers) pp.70 – 291 in; del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. & Christie, D.A. eds. Handbook of the Birds of the World, Vol. 12. Picathartes to Tits and Chickadees. Lynx Edicions, Barcelona.
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