Mousebird facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coliiformes |
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| Speckled Mousebird, Colius striatus | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Subclass: | |
| Infraclass: | |
| Superorder: |
Neoaves
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| Order: |
Coliiformes
Murie, 1872
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| Family: |
Coliidae
Swainson, 1837
and see text |
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Colius |
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A mousebird is a unique type of bird. These birds are not closely related to many other bird groups. However, they might be somewhat related to parrots and cockatoos. Scientists have given mousebirds their own special group, called an order, known as Coliiformes.
Today, you can only find mousebirds living in the area of Africa south of the Sahara Desert. But long ago, they lived in more places. It seems they first developed in Europe.
What Mousebirds Look Like
Mousebirds are slender birds. They usually have soft, hair-like feathers that are grey or brown. Their bodies are typically about 10 centimeters (4 inches) long. They also have a very long, thin tail that can be another 20–24 centimeters (8–9.5 inches) long! Most mousebirds weigh about 45–55 grams (1.6–1.9 ounces).
These birds have small crests on their heads. They also have short, strong bills.
How Mousebirds Live
Mousebirds spend most of their time in trees. They move quickly through the leaves, almost like rodents. This is why they are called "mousebirds"! They are always looking for tasty berries, fruits, and buds to eat. They are so good at finding food that they can even feed while hanging upside down!
Mousebirds are very social birds. They love to "talk" to each other with many different sounds. You can often find them in groups of about twenty birds. They usually live in areas with light woods or bushes.
Mousebird Nests and Eggs
Mousebirds build their nests in trees. Their nests are shaped like a cup and are made from twigs. They line the inside of the nest with soft grasses. Female mousebirds usually lay 2 to 4 eggs in their nests.
See also
