Species profile
About this species
Asities are a small family of passerine birds endemic to Madagascar, comprising four species in two genera. The males of some species, such as the Velvet Asity, display striking, brightly coloured facial wattles during the breeding season. They are primarily frugivorous or nectarivorous birds found in the rainforests & humid forests of Madagascar.
Humid rainforests & montane forests of eastern Madagascar, with some species found in the drier forests of western Madagascar. They typically inhabit forest understorey & mid-canopy levels.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Asities with us in Madagascar.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
The breeding season between October & December offers the best opportunity, as males display their brightest wattles. Early morning hours provide the most active feeding behaviour & softer light in the forest canopy.
Focus on capturing the vivid facial wattles of males during breeding season when colours are most intense. Position yourself near fruiting trees or flowering plants where asities feed, as this provides natural perching opportunities & predictable subjects. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze movement in the forest understorey, where light can be low & birds move quickly between branches.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Asities
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.