Black Scrub-Robin
NameBlack Scrub-Robin
Common NameBlack Scrub-Robin
Scientific NameCercotrichas podobe
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsAdults are uniformly sooty black over their entire body, including the bill and legs. A distinctive feature is the presence of white patches at the base of the outer tail feathers, which are most noticeable when the tail is fanned or flicked.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a varied and melodious series of fluty whistles and trills, often incorporating mimicry of other bird species. Alarm calls are typically harsh 'churr' or 'chak' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found across a broad band of sub-Saharan Africa, stretching from Mauritania and Senegal eastward through the Sahel region to Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Its range also extends into parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
Identifying FeaturesUniform sooty black plumage, White patches at the base of outer tail feathers, Slender build with a relatively long tail, Active, ground-foraging behavior
Description
The Black Scrub-Robin is a slender, medium-sized passerine bird characterized by its entirely sooty black plumage. It is an active species, often seen foraging on the ground or in low bushes in arid environments, frequently flicking its tail to reveal white patches.
