Abyssinian Wheatear
NameAbyssinian Wheatear
Common NameAbyssinian Wheatear
Scientific NameOenanthe lugubris
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent white crown and nape. The undertail coverts and vent are rufous, and the rump is white, contrasting with the black tail. Females are similar but duller, often with a greyish-brown wash.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh chattering notes, often described as 'chak-chak', and whistling calls. They also have a more complex song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Horn of Africa, found in rocky and semi-desert areas of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and northern Somalia.
Identifying Featuresblack plumage, white crown, rufous vent, white rump, tail-flicking behavior
Description
A striking medium-sized wheatear, males are glossy black with a prominent white crown and rufous undertail. They are typically found in rocky, open habitats, often perching conspicuously and flicking their tails.
