Black Wheatear

Overview

The black wheatear (Oenanthe leucura) is a small passerine bird belonging to the Old World flycatcher family. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and is primarily found in the Iberian Peninsula and western North Africa.

Identification

• Length of 16–18 cm, described as a large wheatear.
• Males are all black with a white rump and mainly white tail; females are similar but dark brown instead of black.
• Distinguished from the white-crowned wheatear by a black inverted 'T' on its white tail, whereas the latter has only a black centre and may possess a white crown.
• Possesses a loud, thrush-like song.

Habitat

Breeds on cliffs and rocky slopes in western North Africa and Iberia, though it no longer breeds in southern France. The species is largely resident within its range.

Diet

The food of this wheatear consists mainly of insects.

Did you know?

The specific epithet leucura derives from the Ancient Greek word leukouros, meaning 'white-tailed', referencing the bird's distinct tail markings.