Coliaceae

Coliaceae is a family of birds in the order Coliiformes. The family currently contains a single genus, Colius, which comprises six species: the White-backed Mousebird (Colius leucocephalus), the Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus), the Red-faced Mousebird (Colius castanotus), the Rüppell's Starling (Colius Rüppelli), the Blue-naped Mousebird (Colius macrourus), and the Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus). The Speckled Mousebird is the most widespread and common species.

Mousebirds are small to medium-sized birds, characterized by their slender bodies, long tails, and crests on their heads. Their plumage is typically drab, with shades of brown, gray, and white, though some species have splashes of color on their faces or napes. A distinctive feature of mousebirds is their zygodactyl feet, with two toes pointing forward and two backward, which allows them to perch and maneuver with remarkable agility, even hanging upside down.

Coliaceae are found in sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a variety of environments including savannas, woodlands, and gardens. They are primarily frugivores, feeding on fruits, seeds, and occasionally insects. Mousebirds are highly social birds, often seen in flocks and exhibiting cooperative breeding behavior. They build simple cup-shaped nests and both parents participate in incubation and raising the young. Their common name, "mousebird," is derived from their habit of running along branches in a scurrying manner, resembling mice.