Forest Batis

Overview

The forest batis, also known as the short-tailed batis, is a small bird species belonging to the wattle-eye family, Platysteiridae. It is classified as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A small bird measuring 9.5–10 cm in length with a short black tail edged in white.
• Adult males feature bluish grey upperparts, a black facial mask, white lore spots, and white rump spots, with white underparts and a black breast band.
• Females have more olive upperparts, reddish-brown wings, and a mottled rufous breast band, while juveniles resemble females but with less distinct markings.
• Calls consist of a repetitive, slow series of 'hu-hu-hu-hu' whistles, during which males puff out their white throat feathers.

Habitat

Found in eastern Africa, the forest batis inhabits coastal forests, miombo woodland, and montane forests across the southeastern coast of Kenya and northeastern Tanzania. Its range includes the northern Eastern Arc Mountains and Mount Kilimanjaro, extending from sea level up to 2,300 m.

Did you know?

During their calling display, males puff out their white throat feathers while emitting a slow, repetitive series of 'hu-hu-hu-hu' whistles.