Collared Palm Thrush

Overview

The collared palm thrush (Cichladusa arquata) is an odd and distinctive species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Gray head with a pale eye and a striking rufous back.
• A prominent black mark outlining the throat.
• Absence of spotting below the body, distinguishing it from the Spotted Morning-Thrush.
• A song consisting of airy, wailing notes accompanied by chattering and rasping calls.

Habitat

This species is found across Botswana, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its natural habitats include dry savannah and subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, with a preference for thickets within palm savannas.

Did you know?

Although it may bear some resemblance to the Spotted Morning-Thrush, it stands apart with its pale eye, bright rufous back, and absence of spotting below.