About Merops oreobates (Sharpe, 1892)
Merops oreobates (Sharpe, 1892) measures 22 centimetres (8.7 in) in length and weighs 17–38 grams (0.60–1.34 oz). Males and females of this species have identical appearance. Individuals have bright green heads, upper body parts, and tails; their chins and throats are yellow with a black outline, and a white extension along the side. Their breasts are cinnamon-brown, and this colour darkens toward the belly. When perched, they hold an upright stance with the tail pointing downward. Viewed from the front, the tail is blackish with an orange base and white tip. Viewed from the back, the tail is mainly green, with black edges visible when the tail is flared. This species can be told apart from the similar little bee-eater by its larger size, darker colouring, white cheek patches, and the upland habitat it occupies. This bird inhabits upland regions, most commonly at elevations between 1,800 and 2,300 metres (5,900 and 7,500 ft). It occurs in association with wooded hillsides, forest edges, clearings, plantations, and gardens. Its diet is made up primarily of honeybees, though it also feeds on moths, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles, and other flying insects. It appears to be an adaptable species that can tolerate the loss of its native forest habitat.
