The male Black-backed Puffback is known for his display of puffed white feathers, which he uses to frighten off potential mates or competitors

Black-backed Puffbacks (Dryoscopus cubla) are distinctive shrike-like birds found in sub-Saharan Africa. This little bird, known for its shiny black back and fluffy white puffed-up feathers on the lower back during displays, blends effortlessly into its forest and savanna surroundings when at repose. The puffback gets its nаme from males “puffing” their delicate white feathers in courtship or territorial displays.

This species survives in dry savannas and deep woodlands. Most of its food comes from caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers in the foliage. Black-backed Puffbacks have piercing calls that are often heard before seen. They hop from branch to branch, using their hooked beaks to catch prey.