Species profile
About this species
The Sickle-billed vanga is a striking bird endemic to Madagascar, recognised by its extraordinarily long, curved bill which it uses to extract insects & small vertebrates from bark & crevices. It is the largest member of the vanga family, with bold black & white plumage making it highly distinctive in the field. The species is often found in small, noisy groups moving through the forest canopy.
Dry deciduous forest & spiny forest in western & northern Madagascar, often in the canopy & mid-storey of mature woodland.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Sickle-billed vanga 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
Early morning hours shortly after dawn when the birds are most active & vocal; the dry season between April & October offers better visibility through deciduous forest.
Position yourself near large trees where groups are actively foraging, as the birds often work their way down trunks giving excellent close views. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/500s to freeze movement as the birds probe bark with their long bills. The high contrast black & white plumage can fool metering systems, so use spot metering or apply slight negative exposure compensation to retain detail.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Sickle-billed vanga
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.