Old World flycatchers

(Muscicapidae)

Class Aves

Order Passeriformes

Suborder Passeri (Oscines)

Family Muscicapidae

Thumbnail description
A large, highly variable group consisting of about 135 species of songbirds. They are small-to medium-sized perching birds, sometimes quite colorful; most feed by making aerial sallies from an exposed perch to catch their prey of flying insects

Size
Body length 3–9 in (7.6–23 cm)

Number of genera, species
16 genera, 135 species, including 9 genera (109 species) of Muscicapinae (typical Old World flycatchers) and 7 genera (26 species) of Platysteirinae (African flycatchers)

Habitat
Species occur in a wide range of habitats, including forest, woodland, savanna, grassland, edges of waterbodies and wetlands, pasture and other agricultural areas, and well-vegetated gardens and residential areas

Conservation status
The World Conservation Union (IUCN) lists 18 species of the Muscicapidae as being at risk, plus another 19 species as being Near Threatened

Distribution
Widespread in Eurasia and Africa with the greatest richness of species occurring in tropical and subtropical Africa, India, and Southeast Asia

Evolution and systematics

As treated here, the Old World flycatchers (family Muscicapidae) include 16 genera and about 135 species, including 9 genera and 109 species of the subfamily Muscicapinae (the typical Old World flycatchers) and 7 genera and 26 species of Platysteirinae (the African flycatchers). However, avian systematists are actively studying the composition of this diverse group of birds and related ones. There is ongoing controversy about the relationship of the Muscicapidae to other designated families of passerine birds, and whether to combine some of these with the Old World flycatchers. One classification joins the Muscicapidae with several related families, including the whistlers (Pachycephalidae), the fantails (Rhipiduridae), and the monarchs (Monarchidae). That group would include about 49 genera and 398 species. Some other systematic treatments would include even more families than this, including the Old World warblers (Silviidae) and thrushes (Turdidae). The tyrant flycatchers (Tyrannidae) are generally similar in appearance and behavior to the Muscicapidae, but this is because of convergent evolution as the families are not actually closely related.

Physical characteristics

The Old World flycatchers are a large and variable group consisting of about 135 species of songbirds. The subfamily Muscicapinae includes small- to medium-sized birds, with a body length generally ranging from 3–9 in (7.6–23 cm). The bill is relatively small, short, vertically (dorso-ventrally) flattened, and pointed. There are stout, well-developed bristles (known as rictal bristles) at the gape of the beak, which help increase the effectiveness at catching flying insects. The legs are relatively short and the feet small but well suited to perching. Coloration is highly variable among species, ranging from dull gray or brown to bright blue or vermilion and sometimes occurring in stark patterns. The sexes are colored alike in many species, but are dimorphic in others. Young birds are usually relatively subdued in coloration and spotted on the back and/or breast.

The subfamily Platysteirinae is also a varied group of small- to medium-sized songbirds. The bill is small, short, vertically flattened, and slightly hooked at the tip. There are well-developed rictal bristles at the gape of the beak. The tail

is short and the legs and feet are variable in length and stoutness. An area of bare skin around the eye is variable in color among species. The sexes are colored differently, with the females being generally more subdued in pattern and hue. The plumage coloration of the male is mostly glossy black and white, while the female is usually more brown and sometimes light rufous on the belly. In both the Muscicapinae and Platysteirinae, relatively widespread species have been divided into various gepgraphically distinct subspecies and races that are distinct in elements of their size, plumage, behavior, and song.

Distribution

Species of typical Old World flycatchers are found widely through Eurasia and Africa. However, the greatest richness of species occurs in tropical Asia and Africa. Species of the Platysteirinae occur only in Africa.

Habitat

Species of Old World flycatchers occur in a wide range of habitats, including moist and dry forest, woodland, savanna, grassland, edges of waterbodies and wetlands, pasture and other agricultural areas, and well-vegetated gardens and residential areas.

Behavior

The northern species of Old World flycatchers are seasonal migrants, breeding in higher-latitude temperate and subarctic regions and wintering in subtropical and tropical areas. During their migration they travel at night and feed during the day. Species that breed in subtropical and tropical regions are resident there, although some of them may undertake seasonal movements between low- and high-altitude habitats. Most species are non-gregarious, occurring only singly, as pairs, or in small family groups consisting of parents and their immature progeny. The Old World flycatchers are strong and highly maneuverable fliers. Most species feed by sitting on a conspicuous perch until a flying insect is spotted, which is then pursued and caught in an aerial sally. Some species also glean prey from foliage, bark surfaces, or the ground. Some species have a well-developed song used to proclaim and defend their breeding territory, but in others it is relatively monotonous and weak. All species have calls used to communicate with individuals of their species, or to alert all nearby birds of the presence of a potential predator.

Feeding ecology and diet

Old World flycatchers use a variety of feeding tactics to prey on insects and other arthropods. Most species use an exposed vantage point, such as a high perch in a tree, to spot flying insects, which are then caught in an aerial pursuit. Some species also feed by gleaning prey from bark, branches, foliage, or spider webs, or by swooping down to feed on arthropods spotted on the ground. Some species repeatedly return

to use a favorite perch for hunting, while others move about and frequently change their vantage point.

Reproductive biology

Old World flycatchers are highly territorial during their breeding season, defending a nesting area from others of their species. They do this by proclaiming their territory by frequent renditions of a song, and if this is not sufficient they will fight with intruders. They build a cup-shaped nest of grass, bark, and other plant fibers. The nest is generally placed in the fork of a branch, on a ledge of a bank, or in a cavity in a tree, stump, or cliff. They lay two to seven spotted or mottled eggs. In some species both parents participate in building the nest and incubating the eggs, while in others only the female does this. The incubation period ranges from about 12–22 days. Both parents care for the nestlings and fledglings. In some species, particularly of African flycatchers, immature birds of previous nestings will help their parents raise a new clutch of siblings.

Conservation status

The World Conservation Union IUCN lists 18 species of birds in the Muscicapidae as being at risk, plus another 19 species as being Near Threatened. However, the conservation status of many rare species in this group has not yet been studied. Further research will undoubtedly add additional species to the listings. Examples of listed species at-risk include the Nimba flycatcher (Melaenornis annamarulae) of the Ivory Coast and Guinea (Vulnerable), the streaky-breasted jungle-flycatcher (Rhinomyias addita) of China (Near Threatened), the white-browed jungle-flycatcher (Rhinomyias insignis) of the Philippines (Vulnerable), the Grand Comoro flycatcher (Humblotia flavirostris) of the Comoro Islands (Endangered), the Lampobattang flycatcher (Ficedula bonthaina) of Indonesia (Endangered), the red-tailed newtonia (Newtonia fanovanae) of Madagascar (Vulnerable), and the banded wattle-eye (Platysteira laticincta) of Cameroon (Endangered). All of these species are at-risk because of historical and ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation.

Significance to humans

Old World flycatchers are not of direct importance to humans, other than the indirect economic benefits of ecotourism and bird-watching focused on seeing birds in natural habitats. Moreover, it is crucial that research be undertaken to better understand the biology and habitat needs of the rare and endangered species of Old World flycatchers. In addition, their critical habitats must be identified and rigorously protected to prevent the extinction of these birds.

Species accounts

List of Species

Spotted flycatcher

Muscicapa striata

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Muscicapa striata Pallas, 1764.

other common names

French: Gobemouche gris; German: Grauschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Gris.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5 in (13–14 cm). Both sexes are colored alike, having a brownish gray back, head, and tail and a white belly and throat streaked with gray. The juvenile is more spotted. Various subspecies have been described based on plumage and song characters.

distribution

Breeds widely in northern and central Europe and European and central Russia, and winters in southern Africa.

habitat

Breeds in temperate forest edges, woods, parks, orchards, and gardens.

behavior

A migratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Winters as single birds. Often flicks its wings and tail when perched. The song is delivered from a prominent perch, and is a series of about six squeaky notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Spots flying insects from a prominent perch and then pursues the prey by an aerial sally. Usually returns persistently to the same perch.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a tree crotch, shallow tree-cavity, or behind loose bark, and also uses nest-boxes. Lays four to six greenish eggs with rust-colored spots.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of bird-watching.

Ashy flycatcher

Muscicapa caerulescens

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Muscicapa caerulescens Hartlaub, 1865.

other common names

English: Ashy alseonax, blue-gray flycatcher, cinereus flycatcher; French: Gobemouche à lunettes; German: Schieferschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Ahumado.

physical characteristics

The body length is 5.5–6 in (14–16 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a light blue-gray back, gray-white underparts, a

white eye-ring, and a black line bordered by a white one extending through the eye. Several subspecies have been identified, which differ somewhat in coloration.

distribution

A resident species of much of southern Africa.

habitat

Occurs in a wide range of tropical forest-edges and moist open woodlands and savannas, and also cleared and agricultural areas. Does not occur in the interior of closed forest. Occurs as high as 5,900 ft (1,800 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song consists of three to five high-pitched notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Hunts from a perch for flying insects in the upper canopy. Usually returns to its original perch after an aerial sally.

reproductive biology

Builds a bulky cup-shaped nest of moss, grass, and rootlets lined with finer material. Nest is placed in a shallow tree-cavity, a bark crevice, or at a narrow branch-fork. Lays two or three creamy colored, finely speckled eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of bird-watching.

Cassin's flycatcher

Muscicapa cassini

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Muscicapa cassini Heine, 1859.

other common names

English: Cassin's alseonax, Cassin's gray flycatcher; French: Gobemouche de Cassin; German: Cassinschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas de Cassin.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5.5 in (14 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a bluish gray back, black wings and tail, and white underparts with gray flanks and chest.

distribution

A resident species of much of western tropical Africa.

habitat

Occurs in the vicinity of rivers, streams, and other surface waters within humid, lowland, tropical forest. Occurs as high as about 5,900 ft (1,800 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a linear territory along a watercourse, or a wider one in flooded forest. The song consists of a medley of whistles, buzzes, and chirps sung in bouts of several minutes.

feeding ecology and diet

An active hunter that searches for flying insects from an exposed perch, such as a stump or dead tree in the water or from an overhanging branch. Usually returns to its original perch after each sally. Sometimes swoops to take prey from a spider web or the ground.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest of grass and other fibers. The nest is placed close to the ground in a shallow cavity in a stump, in other kinds of tree-crevices, or at a narrow branch-fork. Lays two light-green, finely speckled eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Pied flycatcher

Ficedula hypoleuca

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Ficedula hypoleuca Pallas, 1764.

other common names

English: European pied flycatcher; French: Gobemouche noir; German: Trauerschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Cerrojillo.

physical characteristics

The body length is 5 in (13–14 cm). The male is colored strikingly black-and-white, with a black back and head, a white belly and throat, and white wing-flashes. The female and juvenile are gray above, with a white belly and throat, and white wing-flashes. The winter male is colored more grayish.

distribution

Breeds widely in northern and central Europe and European Russia, and winters in western equatorial Africa.

habitat

Breeds in temperate forest, woods, parks, orchards, and gardens.

behavior

A migratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Winters as single birds. Often raises its fanned tail while perched. The song is delivered from a prominent perch, and is a varied series of loud trills.

feeding ecology and diet

Catches flying insects by an aerial sally from a prominent perch. Usually returns persistently to the same perch.

reproductive biology

Nests in a tree-cavity, and also uses nest-boxes. Lays five to seven blue eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Collared flycatcher

Ficedula albicollis

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Ficedula albicollis Temminck, 1795.

other common names

English: Half-collared flycatcher; semicollared flycatcher; French: Gobemouche à collier; German: Halsbandschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Collarino.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 4.5 in (11.5 cm), with the male colored black-and-white, with a black back and head, an intervening white collar at the nape, a white belly and throat, and white wing-flashes. The female and juvenile are gray with a white belly and throat and white wing-flashes. The winter male is colored more grayish. Various subspecies have been described based on plumage and song characters.

distribution

Breeds widely in Europe, and winters in eastern equatorial Africa.

habitat

Breeds in temperate forest, woods, parks, orchards, and gardens.

behavior

A migratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Winters as single birds. Often raises its fanned tail while perched. The song is delivered from a prominent perch, and is a varied series of soft trills.

feeding ecology and diet

Catches flying insects by an aerial sally from a prominent perch. Usually returns persistently to the same perch.

reproductive biology

Nests in a tree-cavity or holes in rock walls, and also uses nest-boxes. Lays five to seven blue eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Little slaty flycatcher

Ficedula basilanica

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Ficedula basilanica Sharpe, 1877.

other common names

French: Gobemouche de Basilan; German: Schiefergrundschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Pizarro Chico.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5 in (12 cm). The male is colored slate-gray on the back, head, and tail and has a white belly. The female is more brownish.

distribution

Vulnerable. A rare, endemic, nonmigratory species that only occurs on the islands of Samar, Leyte, Dinagat, Mindanao, and Basilan in the Philippine archipelago.

habitat

Occurs in lowland, humid, evergreen, primary and mature secondary tropical forest, including selectively logged areas. It selects microhabitat within the dense forest understorey. It occurs over the altitudinal range of sea level to 3,900 ft (0–1,200 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. A quiet, skulking species of the forest understory. The song is a series of warbling phrases.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches from a low perch for flying insects.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest.

conservation status

Vulnerable. A rare and declining species. Much of its original natural habitat has been lost to the development of subsistence agriculture, commercial plantations, logging, mining, and in one place, a golf course. Some of its breeding habitat occurs in protected areas, but is not necessarily safe from disturbance there. Areas of its critical breeding habitat must be protected.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Brown-chested jungle-flycatcher

Rhinomyias brunneata

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Rhinomyias brunneata Slater, 1897.

other common names

English: Brown-chested flycatcher, Chinese olive flycatcher; French: Gobemouche à poitrine brune; German: Weisskehl-Dschungelschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Selvático de Gargantilla Blanca.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a brown back, wings, and tail, a brown-buff breast, white throat, and tan eye-ring.

distribution

A migratory species that breeds in southeastern China and winters on the Malay Peninsula. It migrates through Thailand and perhaps the Nicobar Islands, and winters in parts of Malaysia and Singapore, and possibly parts of the islands of Borneo and Sumatra.

habitat

Breeds and winters in dense stands of bamboo and shrubs within subtropical, broadleaf, evergreen forest, and mature second-growth forest. Occurs within an altitudinal range of 2,000–3,900 ft (600–1,200 m).

behavior

A migratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song consists of a series of piping calls.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches from a perch for flying insects in the forest canopy.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a shallow tree-cavity or at a narrow branch-fork.

conservation status

Vulnerable. A rare and declining species because of widespread loss and fragmentation of its critical habitat. Its critical breeding, migratory, and wintering habitats must be identified and protected.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Fulvous-chested jungle-flycatcher

Rhinomyias olivacea

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Rhinomyias olivacea Hume, 1877.

other common names

English: Olive-backed jungle-flycatcher; French: Gobemouche à dos olive; German: Olivrücken-Dschungelschnàpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Selvático de Lomo Olivo.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a brownish gray back, white throat and belly, tawny chest, and rufus tail.

distribution

A widespread species of the Malay Peninsula, parts of the island of Borneo, and the Greater Sunda Islands of Indonesia, including Sumatra, Java, and Bali.

habitat

Occurs at forest edges, in secondary forest, and in plantations. Generally occurs below 3,950 ft (1,200 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a series of seven to nine simple notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Forages for insects on or near the ground, generally in the lower canopy. Hunts from a perch.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a shallow cavity or tree-hole.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Grand Comoro flycatcher

Humblotia flavirostris

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Humblotia flavirostris Milne-Edwards and Oustalet, 1885.

other common names

English: Humblot's flycatcher; French: Gobemouche des Comores; German: Humblotschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas de Humblot.

physical characteristics

The body length is 5.5 in (14 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a brown back, wings, and tail, a white breast heavily streaked with brown, and a lighter streaked throat.

distribution

A rare, endemic, nonmigratory species that occurs only in the Comoro Islands, in the Indian Ocean just north of Madagascar.

habitat

Only occurs in natural tropical forest on the slopes of Mount Karthala, a periodically erupting volcano on Grand Comoro Island. Occurs within an altitudinal range of 2,600–6,600 ft (800–2,000 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a sharp trill.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches from a perch for flying insects in low parts of the forest canopy.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a relatively tall tree.

conservation status

Endangered. An extremely local and rare species that only breeds on the slopes of a single, active volcano. Its population is declining because some of its habitat is being lost to the development of subsistence agriculture, commercial plantations, logging, and invasion of disturbed areas by non-native shrubs. Its critical breeding habitat must be protected.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Dull-blue flycatcher

Eumyias sordida

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Eumyias sordida Walden, 1870.

other common names

English: Dusky-blue flycatcher; French: Gobemouche de Ceylan; German: Ceylonschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas de Sri Lanka.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The sexes are colored alike, having an ashy-blue back, head, chest, and tail and a whiter belly. The forehead is a brighter blue color, and a black line runs forward from the eyes. The juvenile is more spotted.

distribution

A resident species occurring only in Sri Lanka.

habitat

Occurs at the edges of forest and woods and in shady gardens. Occurs at various altitudes, but most abundant at 3,950–6,000 ft (1,200–1,830 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a series of six to eight clear notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Catches flying insects by an aerial sally from a low perch. Often returns to the same perch.

reproductive biology

Nests in forest or woods, where a cup-shaped nest made of mosses and other fibers is placed close to the ground on a ledge, in a rocky crevice, or in a shallow tree-cavity.

conservation status

An endemic species of Sri Lanka, but locally abundant and not threatened according to IUCN criteria. However, its forest habitat is rapidly being lost.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Large niltava

Niltava grandis

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Niltava grandis Blyth, 1842.

other common names

English: Great Niltava; French: Grand gobemouche; German: Kobaltniltava; Spanish: Niltava grande.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 8 in (20 cm). The sexes are colored differently. The male has a dark-blue back and a brilliant-blue top of the head, a black mask through the eyes, a black throat, and a shining orange-rufous belly. The female is rather uniformly olive-brown with a lighter belly, and the juvenile is light-brown with whitish spots.

distribution

A species of the Himalayan region of Nepal, Bhutan, and western India, and extending through the mountains of Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and southwest China and Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra.

habitat

Occurs in humid, dense, broad-leafed forest, often near a stream. Mostly breeds at altitudes of 5,000–9,350 ft (1,525–2,850 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species, but undertakes seasonal movements between high- and low-elevation habitats. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Not highly active, and often sits on perch for rather long periods without feeding. The song is a series of three or four simple, rising whistles.

feeding ecology and diet

Catches flying insects in the middle part of the canopy by an aerial sally from a perch. Often returns to the same perch. Also eats small fruits.

reproductive biology

Nests in forest. Builds a cup-shaped nest of mosses and other fibers in a mossy area among rocks on the ground, against a tree-trunk, or in a shallow cavity in a rotten stump.

conservation status

A rare, endemic species of the western Himalayas. However, it may be locally abundant and is not threatened according to IUCN criteria. Nevertheless, its forest habitat is rapidly being lost and the species should be closely monitored.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Orange-breasted blue flycatcher

Cyornis tickelliae

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Cyornis tickelliae Blyth, 1843.

other common names

English: Tickell's blue flycatcher; French: Gobemouche de Tickell; German: Braunbrust-Blauschnäpper; Spanish: Niltava de Tickell.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5.5 in (14 cm). The sexes are dimorphic. The male has a blue back and top of the head, a black mask around the eyes, a rufus chest, and a white belly. The female is colored a more subdued blue above, with a white throat and belly and rufus-washed chest. The juvenile is brown with whitish spots and bluish wings and tail. However, some of these colors and patterns differ among geographic races.

distribution

A widespread species of the Indian subcontinent, occurring in India, southern Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

habitat

Occurs in open, dry forest and woodland, and also in well-vegetated gardens.

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Flits actively in the canopy. The song is a metallic trill of six to 10 notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Catches flying insects within the forest canopy, by an aerial sally from a perch.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest of mosses on a rocky ledge, in a tree-hole, or among tangles of tree-roots. Nests within about 6 ft (2 m) of the forest floor.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Large-billed blue-flycatcher

Cyornis caerulatus

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Cyornis caerulatus Bonaparte, 1857.

other common names

French: Bobemouche à grand bec; German: Breitschnabel-Blauschnäpper; Spanish: Niltava Picuda.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5.5 in (14 cm). The sexes are colored differently. The male has a dark-blue back, tail, and head, and an orange belly and throat. The female is brown above with a blue tail and rump.

distribution

A rare, endemic, nonmigratory species that only occurs on the Indonesian islands of Borneo and Sumatra.

habitat

Inhabits humid lowland and mid-slope, evergreen, tropical forest. It occurs in densely vegetated habitats within primary, mature secondary, and selectively logged forest.

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches from a perch for flying insects in middle and upper parts of the canopy.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a relatively tall tree.

conservation status

Vulnerable. An increasingly rare and declining species because much of its habitat has been lost to the development of subsistence agriculture, commercial plantations, and logging. Some of its breeding habitat occurs in various protected areas, but these places are still being subjected to commercial logging. Much of its habitat has been degraded by extensive, illegal fires started to clear the natural forest for agricultural use. Areas of its critical breeding habitat must be protected.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Fraser's forest-flycatcher

Fraseria ocreata

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Fraseria ocreata Strickland, 1844.

other common names

English: African forest-flycatcher; French: Gobemouche forestier; German: Waldschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas del Bosque.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with upperparts dark-gray, the tail feathers black, and the underparts white with dark, dense, scalloped markings. The juvenile is more brown with some spotting.

distribution

A widespread species of tropical western and central Africa.

habitat

Occurs in primary and mature secondary, moist, tropical forest from the lowlands to as high as 5,250 ft (1,600 m). Inhabits stands with a high, thick canopy and often occurs in the vicinity of a forest watercourse.

behavior

A nonmigratory species. A relatively social species, which may occur in groups of as many as 30 individuals. It may breed in a semi-colonial manner. It also breeds as isolated, monogamous pairs, but groups may be polygamous. Breeding pairs are often accompanied by their young of previous years, which may help the parents with raising their brood. The family and social groups also react collectively to danger. The song is a melodious series of two to seven notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Forages actively for insects, which are gleaned from foliage. Also fly-catches for aerial prey. A noisy, active, gregarious bird that frequently flits its tail and partially spreads its wings while hunting.

reproductive biology

Builds a bulky nest with an internal cup. The nest is built by various members of the family group. Lays two or three eggs, which are incubated by the female. The young are raised by the parents plus related helpers.

conservation status

Not threatened. A widespread and locally abundant species.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Abyssinian slaty flycatcher

Melaenornis chocolatinus

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Melaenornis chocolatina Rüppell, 1840.

other common names

English: Chocolate flycatcher; slaty flycatcher; French: Gobemouche chocolat; German: Habeschdrongoschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Etíope.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5.5 in (15 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a dark-brown back, grayer belly, light under the rump, and buff on breast.

distribution

An endemic (or local) species of the highlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea.

habitat

Occurs in a range of types of humid, highland forest and woods and coffee plantations as high as 8,200 ft (2,500 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. Sometimes wags its tail while perched. The song is a simple, high-pitched phrase of three or four notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Hunts from a perch in the forest canopy for flying insects.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest at a narrow fork of a horizontal tree branch. Lays three blue-gray, blotched eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. A rare endemic species but locally abundant.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Silverbird

Empidornis semipartitus

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Empidornis semipartita Rüppell, 1840.

other common names

French: Gobemouche argenté; German: Silberschnäpper; Spanish: Papamoscas Plateado.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 7.5 in (18 cm). The sexes are colored similarly, with a light silvery grayish blue back, bright rufus

underparts, wings gray above and orange beneath, and silvery markings on the head and tail.

distribution

An endemic (or local) species of the highlands of east-central Africa, including parts of Ethiopia, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.

habitat

Occurs in dry and semi-arid forest and woods with scattered large trees, especially acacias, in areas as high as 9,050 ft (2,300 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a soft, rich, and warbling.

feeding ecology and diet

Hunts from a perch in the canopy for flying insects. Also swoops down to take insects from the ground. Usually returns to its original perch.

reproductive biology

Builds a dome-shaped nest of grass and thorny twigs lined with finer fibers, or may used an old nest of a weaver-finch. Lays two or three olive-green eggs.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species that is locally abundant in its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Red-tailed newtonia

Newtonia fanovanae

subfamily

Muscicapinae

taxonomy

Newtonia fanovanae Gyldenstolpe, 1933.

other common names

English: Fanovana newtonia, fanovana warbler; French: Newtonie à queue rouge; German: Fanovana-Newtonie; Spanish: Papamoscas de Newton.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5 in (12 cm). The back and head are olive-brown, the tail rufous, and the belly white.

distribution

A rare, endemic, nonmigratory species that only occurs on the island of Madagascar.

habitat

Occurs in lowland, humid, evergreen tropical forest. It occurs only in large tracts of intact forest, over the altitudinal range of 330–2,950 ft (100–900 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species. Pairs of breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a descending series of notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches from a perch for flying insects in the middle and upper parts of the forest canopy. Often associates with mixed-species foraging flocks.

reproductive biology

Builds a cup-shaped nest in a relatively tall tree.

conservation status

Vulnerable. A rare and declining species because much of its habitat has been lost to the development of subsistence agriculture, and to logging in some areas. Some of its breeding habitat occurs in various protected areas, but it is still at risk of disturbance there. Areas of its critical breeding habitat must be well protected.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Shrike-flycatcher

Megabyas flammulatus

subfamily

Platysteirinae

taxonomy

Megabyas flammulata Verreaux, 1855.

other common names

English: African shrike-flycatcher; French: Gobemouche écorcheur; German: Schnäpperwürger; Spanish: Atrapamoscas Africano.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The iris is bright orange. The male is colored glossy black on the head, back, wings, and tail, and white on the rump, underparts, and under-wings. The female and immature are brownish, and their breast is brown-streaked on white.

distribution

A widespread, nonmigratory species of central tropical Africa.

habitat

Occurs in lowland, humid, primary and mature secondary tropical forest, as well as the forested edges of clearings. It occurs as high as about 7,000 ft (2,150 m)

behavior

A nonmigratory species that occurs in pairs or small groups. Breeding birds defend a territory. Sits quietly on a perch, often swinging its tail slowly sideways. The song is a sustained series of repetitive phrases.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches actively or from a perch for flying insects in the lower part of the forest canopy. Insects are also gleaned from foliage. Sometimes joins mixed-species foraging flocks.

reproductive biology

Builds a small cup-shaped nest in a narrow fork of a branch. Lays two or three, greenish-gray, mottled eggs that are incubated for at least 16 days. Pairs are monogamous but are probably helped with their breeding by their immature progeny.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species that is locally abundant in parts of its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Black-and-white flycatcher

Bias musicus

subfamily

Platysteirinae

taxonomy

Bias musicus Vieillot, 1818.

other common names

English: Black-and-white shrike-flycatcher; French: Gobemouche chanteur; German: Vangaschnäpper; Spanish: Atrapamoscas Blanco y negro.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The iris is bright yellow. Both sexes have a feathered crest on the top of the head. The male is colored glossy black on the head, back, wings, tail, and chest, and white on the rump and lower underparts. The female and immature are mostly brown, with a white throat and tan-colored chest and belly.

distribution

A widespread, nonmigratory species of central tropical Africa.

habitat

Occurs in large openings in lowland, humid, primary and secondary tropical and montane forest, including agricultural and village clearings with some tall trees. It occurs as high as about 5,600 ft (1,700 m)

behavior

A nonmigratory species that occurs in pairs or as small family groups. Breeding birds defend a territory. Performs slow-flying, noisy, aerial displays. The song is a series of two to four varied notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches actively or from a perch for insects in the upper part of the tree canopy. Insects are gleaned from foliage, and are also caught in flight.

reproductive biology

Builds a small cup-shaped nest in a narrow fork of a branch. Lays two or three, pale blue-green, blotched eggs that are incubated for 18–19 days. Pairs are monogamous but their immature progeny help them with their breeding effort.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species but locally abundant in parts of its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Chestnut wattle-eye

Dyaphorophyia castanea

subfamily

Platysteirinae

taxonomy

Dyaphorophyia castanea Fraser, 1843.

other common names

French: Gobemouche caronculé châtain; German: Weissbürzel-Lappenschnäpper; Spanish: Ojicarunculado Castaño.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 4 in (10–11 cm). The head is relatively large, the tail extremely short, and the wings short and

rounded. The iris is dark brown, and there is a gray patch of bare skin (an eye-wattle) around the eye. The male is colored glossy black above, with a white rump and undersides except for a black band across the breast. The female is a duller brown-black with a gray head, white chin and belly, and sides of head and chest chestnut.

distribution

A widespread, nonmigratory species of tropical, central, western Africa.

habitat

Occurs in lowland, humid, primary and mature secondary tropical and montane forest, including flooded forest. It occurs in relatively shrubby and liana-dense habitats. It occurs as high as about 5,900 ft (1,800 m)

behavior

A nonmigratory species that occurs in pairs or as small family groups. Breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a series of simple notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches actively or from a perch for insects in the lower canopy. Insects are gleaned from foliage and also caught in flight.

reproductive biology

Builds a small cup-shaped nest in a fork of a branch. Lays one or two, glossy blue-green eggs that are incubated by the female for 17 days. Pairs are monogamous but their immature progeny help them with their breeding effort.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species that is locally abundant in parts of its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Black-throated wattle-eye

Platysteira peltata

subfamily

Platysteirinae

taxonomy

Platysteira peltata Sundevall, 1850.

other common names

English: Wattle-eyed flycatcher; French: Gobemouche caronculé à gorge noire; German: Schwarzkehl-Lappenschnäpper; Spanish: Ojicarunculado de Garganta Negra.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 5.5 in (14 cm). The head is relatively large, the tail short, and the wings rounded. There is a red patch of bare skin (an eye-wattle) over the eye. The male is colored glossy green-black on the head, with a dark gray back, and white belly. The female is a duller color and has a dark ring across the breast.

distribution

A widespread, nonmigratory species of southern subtropical Africa.

habitat

Occurs in primary and mature secondary lowland and montane forest, often in the vicinity of surface water. It occurs at 5,600–9,900 ft (1,700–3,000 m)

behavior

A nonmigratory species that occurs in pairs or as small family groups. Breeding birds defend a territory. The song is a rasping series of notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches actively or from a perch for insects in the lower canopy and sometimes higher. Insects are gleaned from foliage and also caught in flight.

reproductive biology

Builds a small cup-shaped nest in a narrow fork of a branch. Lays one or two, glossy gray-green eggs that are incubated by the female for 16–18 days. Pairs are monogamous but their immature progeny help them with their breeding effort.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species but locally abundant in parts of its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Cape batis

Batis capensis

subfamily

Platysteirinae

taxonomy

Batis capensis Linnaeus, 1766.

other common names

English: Cape puffback; French: Batis du Cap; German: Kapschnäpper; Spanish: Batis de el Cabo.

physical characteristics

The body length is about 6 in (15 cm). The head is relatively large, the tail short, and the wings rounded. The iris is orange. The male is colored dark blue-gray on the back and tail, with a black top of head, white throat, black breast-band, white belly, and rufus flanks. The female is a duller color, with no breast-band, and has a brown wash to the breast.

distribution

A local (or endemic) species of coastal southern Africa.

habitat

Occurs in primary and mature secondary woodland, montane forest, shrubby scrub, plantations, and gardens with trees. It occurs between sea level and about 7,050 ft (2,150 m).

behavior

A nonmigratory species that occurs in pairs or as small family groups. Some populations undertake seasonal altitudinal movements. Breeding birds defend a territory. Sometimes aggregates into a larger, excitable flock of 10–30 birds known as a "batis parliament," and may also join mixed-species foraging flocks. The song is a simple whistle or series of notes.

feeding ecology and diet

Searches actively or from a perch for insects at all levels of the canopy. Insects are mostly caught in flight, often after they are scared from a hiding place.

reproductive biology

Builds a small cup-shaped nest in a narrow fork of a branch. Lays one to three eggs that are incubated by the female for 17–21 days. Pairs are monogamous but their immature progeny help them with their breeding effort.

conservation status

Not threatened. An endemic species that is locally abundant in parts of its range.

significance to humans

None known, except for the economic benefits of birdwatching.

Resources

Books

BirdLife International. Threatened Birds of the World. Barcelona and Cambridge: Lynx Edicions and BirdLife International, 2000.

Cramp, S., and C. M. Perrins, eds. Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa: The Birds of the Western Palaearctic: Old World Flycatchers to Shrikes. New York: Oxford Press, 1993.

Urban, E. K., C. H. Fry, and S. Keith. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 5. London: Academic Press.

Organizations

BirdLife International. Wellbrook Court, Girton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB3 0NA United Kingdom. Phone: +44 1 223 277 318. Fax: +44-1-223-277-200. E-mail: birdlife@birdlife.org.uk Web site: <http://www.birdlife.net>

IUCN–The World Conservation Union. Rue Mauverney 28, Gland, 1196 Switzerland. Phone: +41-22-999-0001. Fax: +41-22-999-0025. E-mail: mail@hq.iucn.org Web site: <http://www.iucn.org>

Bill Freedman, PhD