Honeyguide

Honeyguide

There are 11 species of honeyguide birds, closely related to the barbet. The honeyguide has grey to brown plumage with the addition of some brighter highlights in several of the species. The honeyguide is quite fascinating in its culinary habits. Although the honeyguide feeds on insects and berries, the main source of food comes from the bee or wasp hive. Feasting on the highly indigestible wax, the honeyguide has special bacteria within its intestines that break it down. Honeyguides also eat bees, wasps and larvae like the bee-eater. However, they do not seem to remove the sting prior to consumption. It is believed that the honeyguide is resistant to bee and wasp venom. Honeyguides are found in Africa. [BM] {FW}