Blackstart
NameBlackstart
Common NameBlackstart
Scientific NameOenanthe melanura
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)14.5
Plumage DetailsAdults are uniformly plain grey-brown over the head, back, and underparts, often slightly paler on the belly. The most prominent feature is the entirely black tail, which contrasts sharply with the grey body.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a sweet, warbling series of notes, often delivered from a prominent perch. It also has a characteristic 'chack' alarm call and various short, whistled contact calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to North Africa, the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula, inhabiting arid and semi-arid regions.
Identifying Featuresentirely black tail, plain grey plumage, small size, slender build, rock-dwelling behavior
Description
The Blackstart is a small, slender chat characterized by its plain grey plumage and distinctive entirely black tail. It is typically found in arid, rocky habitats, where it forages for insects by hopping among stones and crevices.
