### Corythaixoides concolor: The Grey Go-away-bird
Identification
Often described as a "punk rocker in a grey suit," this medium-sized bird (approx. 48 cm) is defined by its understated elegance and shaggy, erectile crest. Unlike its flamboyantly colored turaco cousins, the Grey Go-away-bird is clad entirely in smoky, ash-grey plumage. Look for its exceptionally long, floppy tail and a thick, black, decurved beak. In flight, their rounded wings and "clumsy" rowing motion are distinctive. To tell it apart from the Bare-faced Go-away-bird, look at the face: *C. concolor* has a fully feathered, uniform grey face, lacking any black skin patches.
Habitat & Range
This species is a staple of the African savanna. You’ll find them across Southern and East Africa, from the thorny Zululand bushveld up to the dry woodlands of Ethiopia. They shun dense, evergreen forests, preferring arid acacia (Vachellia/Senegalia) thornveld, suburban gardens, and riverine thickets. If there are tall trees and a water source nearby, you are likely in Go-away-bird territory.
Behaviour
The Grey Go-away-bird is the self-appointed "sentinel of the bush." Highly social, they move in loose parties of two to ten. While they are mediocre fliers, they are incredibly agile "clamberers," leaping through thorny branches with ease. An observer will first notice their cacophonous, nasal call—a loud, complaining *kwa-way!*—which serves as a warning to all nearby wildlife that a predator (or a human) is approaching.
Diet
Primarily frugivorous, these birds have a penchant for wild fruits like medlars and figs. However, they are also enthusiastic "leaf-eaters," browsing on acacia buds, flowers, and young green shoots. They forage by hopping through the canopy, often hanging upside down to reach a choice berry.
Fascinating Fact
The Grey Go-away-bird is a bane to trophy hunters! Its alarm call is so distinct and reliable that many mammals, including antelope and even leopards, have learned to recognize it as a signal to flee. When this bird screams, the entire bush goes on high alert.