Chinspot Batis
NameChinspot Batis
Common NameChinspot Batis
Scientific NameBatis molitor
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)12
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey crown, black mask extending from the bill to the ear-coverts, a prominent white supercilium, and a bright yellow eye. The back is black, with a broad white wing bar. Underparts are white with a distinct rufous breast band. Females are similar but often have a rufous wash on the supercilium and a duller, broader rufous breast band.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of soft, whistled notes, often described as 'chip-chip-chiree' or 'wee-wee-wee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound widely across sub-Saharan Africa, from Angola and Namibia east to Kenya and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuressmall size, black mask, white supercilium, yellow eye, rufous breast band (male), black back, white wing bar
Description
The Chinspot Batis is a small, active passerine bird known for its striking black, white, grey, and rufous plumage. It is an insectivore, typically found foraging in the mid-canopy of woodlands and savannas, often in pairs.
