Crested Barbet song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Crested Barbet, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The song is a distinctive, loud, sustained, and accelerating trill, often described as 'trrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr'. It starts slowly and builds in speed and volume, sometimes lasting for several seconds. It can be given by both sexes, often in duet.

Calls

Various calls include a harsh 'karr-karr-karr' alarm call, a soft 'churr' contact call, and a 'scolding' chatter when agitated.

When they vocalize

Vocalizes throughout the day, but most frequently in the early morning and late afternoon. Calls are particularly prominent during the breeding season.

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