Finsch's Wheatear
NameFinsch's Wheatear
Common NameFinsch's Wheatear
Scientific NameOenanthe finschii
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)22.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive white crown and nape, a black face and throat, and black upperparts. The underparts are pure white, and the tail is white with a broad black terminal band. Females are duller, with grey-brown upperparts and buffish underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a short, harsh 'chak' or 'tack' call. The song is a mix of whistles and harsher notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds from Turkey eastwards through the Caucasus and Central Asia to Afghanistan and Pakistan. Winters in parts of the Middle East and Northeast Africa.
Identifying FeaturesWhite crown and nape (male), Black face and throat (male), Black upperparts (male), White underparts, White tail with broad black terminal band, Upright posture
Description
This small, striking wheatear is characterized by its bold black and white plumage in males, often seen perched prominently on rocks. It is a ground-foraging insectivore, typically found in arid and semi-arid rocky habitats.
