Fuerteventura Stonechat
NameFuerteventura Stonechat
Common NameFuerteventura Stonechat
Scientific NameSaxicola dacotiae
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)19.5
Length (cm)12.25
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsThe male Fuerteventura Stonechat has a distinctive black head with a prominent white supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and a white half-collar. Its back is streaky brown, and the wings are dark, often showing a small white patch. The underparts are a rich rufous-orange, fading to paler on the belly, and the rump is pale. Females are generally duller, with a browner head and less distinct white markings.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive 'chack-chack' or 'tsack-tsack' sound, often compared to two stones being tapped together. The song is a short, high-pitched, and somewhat scratchy warble.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the island of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, Spain, where it is restricted to specific arid and semi-arid habitats.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head with prominent white supercilium and collar (male), Rufous-orange breast and belly, Streaky brown back, Upright posture when perched, Endemic to Fuerteventura
Description
The Fuerteventura Stonechat is a small, upright passerine endemic to Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. Males display a striking black head with a broad white supercilium and collar, contrasting with rufous-orange underparts and a streaky brown back. It typically perches prominently on low vegetation or rocks, scanning for insects.
