Speckled mousebird
Colius striatus
At the Detroit Zoo
The speckled mousebird can be found inside the Matilda R. Wilson Free-Flight Aviary, where more than 20 species of birds are free to fly, walk or swim among the cover of lush tropical plants in a warm and inviting climate.
Description
Speckled mousebirds are a dull brown color. Their beaks are black on the top and pinkish on the bottom. Their long, pale, brown tails account for half their overall length.
Fun Facts
-
Speckled mousebirds have reversible outer toes, which gives them the versatility to hang upside down and climb tree trunks.
-
Speckled mousebirds have a slow metabolism for birds, and thus do not need to spend as much time in search of food.