Chlorophoneus

Chlorophoneus is a genus of birds in the bushshrike family Malaconotidae. These birds are found in sub-Saharan Africa. The genus was described by the French ornithologist René Primevère Lesson in 1840. The name Chlorophoneus is derived from the Greek words "chloros" meaning green and "phoneus" meaning murderer. This likely refers to their often greenish plumage and their predatory nature.

Species within the Chlorophoneus genus are typically medium-sized birds with strong bills. They often exhibit bright, contrasting plumage, with various combinations of green, yellow, black, and sometimes red or grey. Their diet consists primarily of insects, but they may also prey on small vertebrates such as lizards and frogs. They are known for their distinctive, often melodic or harsh calls.

The taxonomy of Chlorophoneus has been subject to some revision over time, with certain species previously placed in other genera being reclassified. Current accepted species include the Grey-headed Bushshrike (Chlorophoneus poliocephalus), the Orange-breasted Bushshrike (Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus), and the Uluguru Bushshrike (Chlorophoneus alofuscus). These birds inhabit a range of environments, from forests and woodlands to savannas and scrublands. They are generally solitary or found in pairs.