Donacobius atricapillus
The Black-capped Donacobius or Angu as it is called here is one of the iconic birds of the Ibera Marshes with its loud distinguished calls and beautiful markings. We have many of these gregarious birds here at the reserve and they list amongst our favourites.
You nearly always find them in pairs or in families depending on the time of year and always around water.
They measure about 22cm with a black cap, brown/rufous back and wings and a beautiful long black and white tail reminiscent of a cuckoo. Underparts are pale cinnamon and the bill is long and black. The eyes are bright yellow and there is an orange marking at the side of the throat in the breeding season. There is also a white spot on the wing coverts.
