Barbet (General, specific species varies) song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Barbet (General, specific species varies), especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Songs are typically loud, repetitive, and often monotonous, consisting of a series of 'pop', 'coo', 'trill', or 'drumming' notes. Many species have duetting calls. For example, the Crested Barbet (Trachyphonus vaillantii) has a distinctive 'kik-kik-kik-kik-kik' call, while the Black-collared Barbet (Lybius torquatus) has a 'pup-pup-pup-pup' call.

Calls

Calls vary widely by species but often include alarm calls, contact calls, and territorial calls. They can be harsh, churring, or rattling. Juveniles may have softer, less developed versions of adult calls.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. They can also be heard throughout the day, especially when foraging or defending territory.

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