Kurdish Wheatear
NameKurdish Wheatear
Common NameKurdish Wheatear
Scientific NameOenanthe xanthoprymna
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a prominent black face mask extending from the bill to behind the eye, bordered above by a distinct white supercilium. The crown and mantle are greyish-brown, contrasting with blackish wings. Underparts are white, and the most distinctive feature is the bright rufous-orange rump and undertail coverts. The tail is black with white sides at the base.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, often repeated 'chak' or 'tack' call. The song is a varied mix of whistles, trills, and scratchy notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the mountainous and arid regions of eastern Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula (Oman, UAE). Some populations are migratory, wintering in parts of the Arabian Peninsula and northeast Africa.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face mask, White supercilium, Rufous-orange rump and undertail coverts, Greyish-brown upperparts, Black wings
Description
This small, stocky wheatear is characterized by its upright posture and preference for rocky, arid habitats. It is often seen perching prominently on rocks or foraging on the ground for insects. Males display a striking plumage pattern with a dark face mask and rufous rump.
