Brown-backed Scrub-Robin
NameBrown-backed Scrub-Robin
Common NameBrown-backed Scrub-Robin
Scientific NameCercotrichas hartlaubi
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsThis scrub-robin has a plain brown back and wings, with a prominent white supercilium (eyebrow stripe) above a dark eye-stripe. Its underparts are whitish, often with a buffy wash on the flanks, and its dark wings show small white spots or bars. The tail is reddish-brown with white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a varied and melodious song, often incorporating mimicry of other bird species. It also produces a range of chattering and whistling calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in central Africa, ranging from southeastern Nigeria, through Cameroon, Central African Republic, northern Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Uganda, western Kenya, and northwestern Tanzania, extending south into Angola.
Identifying Featuresprominent white supercilium, dark eye-stripe, brown back, white underparts, dark wings with white spots, reddish-brown tail with white tips
Description
The Brown-backed Scrub-Robin is a small, active passerine bird typically found in dense undergrowth and forest edges. It forages primarily for insects on the ground or in low vegetation, often flicking its reddish tail. This species is known for its distinctive facial markings and melodious song.
