HONEYGUIDES

Honeyguides are near passerine birds in the order Piciformes. They are known as indicator birds or honey birds. These birds are best known for their interaction with humans. Most honeyguides are dull colored, though some bright yellow coloring in plumage. They are among the few birds that feed regularly on wax—beeswax in most species. Honeyguides are named for a remarkable habit seen in one or two species: guiding humans to bee colonies. Once the hive is open and the honey is taken, the bird feeds on larvae and wax.