African Dusky Flycatcher

Overview

The African dusky flycatcher (Muscicapa adusta) is a small passerine bird belonging to the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. It is a resident breeder found in elevated areas of Sub-Saharan Africa. The species is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of 13 cm and a weight of approximately 11 g.
• Plain brown upperparts with an indistinct narrow eye-ring as the only facial marking.
• Grey-brown underparts with indistinct streaks and a plain pale grey chin.
• Short, straight, laterally flattened black bill with grey legs and brown eyes.
• Soft, high-pitched "tzeeet" and tsirit calls.

Habitat

Found in elevated areas of Sub-Saharan Africa, including the Bié and Western High plateaus. It inhabits woodlands, riverine forests, evergreen forest edges, clearings near water bodies such as lakes, dams and streams, and well-wooded suburban gardens.

Diet

This species typically forages for insects from an open perch. It usually captures its prey by taking a short flight.

Did you know?

The African dusky flycatcher is monogamous and mates for life. It builds its cup-shaped nest in a tree cavity, which is normally reused in the next breeding season.