Coastal Miner
NameCoastal Miner
Common NameDesert Wheatear
Scientific NameOenanthe deserti
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsAdults exhibit sandy-buff upperparts, a pale supercilium, and white underparts. Males often have a more prominent black face mask, while females are duller. The tail is white with a striking black inverted 'T' pattern.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh 'chak' or 'tack' alarm call and a short, warbling song often delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of China and Mongolia. Winters in northeastern Africa, Arabia, and parts of India.
Identifying Featuressandy-brown plumage, black T-shaped tail pattern, pale supercilium, dark lores, ground-dwelling behavior
Description
This small, pale, sandy-brown passerine is typically found in arid and semi-arid environments. It is characterized by its upright posture and distinctive black T-shaped tail pattern, often seen hopping on the ground while foraging for insects.
