Eastern Black-headed Batis
NameEastern Black-headed Batis
Common NameEastern Black-headed Batis
Scientific NameBatis minor
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, a prominent white supercilium, and bright yellow eyes. The back is black, wings are black with white bars, and underparts are white with a broad black breast band. Females are similar but have a rufous (chestnut) breast band and sometimes a rufous wash on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallTypically a series of high-pitched, whistled notes, often described as 'wee-wee-wee' or 'twee-twee-twee,' which can sometimes accelerate into a trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern Africa, ranging from southern Somalia and eastern Kenya south through Tanzania, Malawi, and northern Mozambique.
Identifying Featuresblack head (male), white supercilium, bright yellow eyes, black breast band (male), rufous breast band (female), black and white wing bars, small size
Description
A small, striking flycatcher-like bird with a distinctive black and white plumage and bright yellow eyes. It actively forages for insects in the mid-canopy of trees, often flicking its tail while searching for prey.
