The white-crested helmetshrike (Prionops plumatus), also known as the white helmetshrike, is a striking bird species belonging to the family Vangidae. Native to sub-Saharan Africa, it is characterized by its bold black and white plumage, piercing yellow eyes, and a distinctive crest of grayish feathers. These birds are known for their sociable nature, often forming groups of up to 10 individuals that forage together and communicate with a variety of vocalizations.

The white-crested helmetshrike is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly black, with striking white markings on the head, wings, and underparts. The face and nape are black, while the forehead, crown, and crest are white. The wings have white patches on the primaries and secondaries, and the underparts are white with black streaks on the flanks and chest. The tail is black with white tips. The eyes are a vibrant yellow, and the bill is black with a slightly hooked tip.

White-crested helmetshrikes inhabit a variety of wooded habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. They prefer areas with open canopies and dense undergrowth, where they can easily move around and search for prey. Their distribution ranges from Senegal in the west to South Africa in the south, and extends eastward to Ethiopia and Somalia.

White-crested helmetshrikes are highly social birds, typically forming groups of 5-10 individuals. These groups move together through the trees, foraging for insects and other small invertebrates. They are active hunters, using their keen eyesight and sharp bills to capture prey from the ground, on tree trunks, or in foliage. Their diet consists mainly of insects, including beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders, but they may also occasionally consume fruits and small lizards.

White-crested helmetshrikes breed during the rainy season, which varies depending on their location. Monogamous pairs build their nests in tree cavities or forks, using twigs, leaves, and grasses. The female lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about 14 days. Upon hatching, the chicks are altricial, meaning they are born nаked and helpless. They are fed and cared for by both parents until they are fledged and able to fly on their own at around 21 days old.

The white-crested helmetshrike is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that its population is stable and not at immediate rιsk of extinction. However, their habitat is threatened by deforestation and agricultural expansion, which could lead to future population declines. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their remaining habitats and promoting sustainable land-use practices.