A bird adorned with a magnificent combination of a vivid crimson forehead and eye-catching yellow-and-white brows.

The pied barbet, also known as the acacia pied barbet (Tricholaema leucomelas), displays a head pattern of black and white stripes, with a red frontal area and forecrown accentuated by a pale yellow stripe above the eyes. A black bib adorns the chin, while the breast and underparts, in the subspecies found in drier regions, boast a pristine white hue. Completing its appearance are deep brown eyes and blackish legs and feet.

Both male and female individuals share a similar appearance.

Juvenile birds lack the red marking on the forehead, and their plumage displays more pronounced streaks.

This species is prevalent in southern Africa, ranging from southern Angola, Zimbabwe, and southern Mozambique, through Namibia and Botswana, and extending throughout South Africa.

The acacia pied barbet primarily inhabits dry savannas, particularly those dominated by Acacia and Baikiaea trees. They can also be found in dry scrublands, plantations, pastures, arable land, rural gardens, and urban areas.

Breeding among acacia pied barbets occurs from September to June. These monogamous and territorial birds work together to excavate and construct nest holes on the underside of branches.

The female lays 2 to 4 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for approximately 12 to 18 days. Once hatched, the chicks are nourished by both parents and fledge around 35 days after hatching.

This species boasts a vast breeding range and appears to be abundant throughout most of its distribution, with some areas experiencing population growth due to the availability of non-native trees suitable for nesting.