Northern Black-Flycatcher
NameNorthern Black-Flycatcher
Common NameNorthern Black-Flycatcher
Scientific NameMelaenornis edolioides
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely dull blackish-grey, appearing almost black in some light, with a slightly paler belly. It has dark eyes, a stout dark bill with prominent rictal bristles, and dark legs.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a varied and melodious song consisting of whistles, trills, and chattering notes. It is also known to mimic the calls of other bird species.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east, and south to northern Tanzania.
Identifying Featuresuniform dull blackish-grey plumage, stout dark bill with rictal bristles, relatively long tail, upright perching posture, sallying flight for insects
Description
The Northern Black-Flycatcher is a medium-sized, uniformly dull blackish-grey bird found across sub-Saharan Africa. It is an active insectivore, often perching conspicuously on branches and sallying out to catch flying insects in mid-air.
