AVITOPIA - Nicators

The three species of the family of Nicators are endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. This family was recently separated from the family of Bulbuls on the basis of DNA studies. They have a body length of 16 cm to 23 cm. They have an olive-colored upside with conspicuous light spots on the wings. Their habitat are different habitats with sufficiently dense bushes. Their food is mainly insects and other invertebrates, but also small vertebrates such as lizards and frogs. The nests consist mainly of twigs, leaves, moss and mushrooms are also built in. The mushrooms stabilize the nest as far as they continue to grow in and around the nest. The eggs are incubated only by the female for 17 to 18 days. The young birds are fed by both parents.