Red-breasted Chat
NameRed-breasted Chat
Common NameRed-breasted Chat
Scientific NamePogonocichla stellata
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have slate-grey upperparts, wings, and tail. The head is black with a distinct white supercilium and a white spot in front of the eye. The throat and breast are vibrant orange-red, transitioning to white on the belly and yellow on the undertail coverts. The bill is black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include clear, whistling notes and a soft 'tsip' or 'tseet' call. The song is a melodious, fluty whistle, often given from dense cover.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and southern Africa, with disjunct populations from Kenya and Tanzania south through Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and into South Africa.
Identifying Featuresbright orange-red breast, slate-grey upperparts, black face with white supercilium, white belly with yellow undertail coverts, small size
Description
This small, striking chat is characterized by its bright orange-red breast, slate-grey upperparts, and a black head with a prominent white supercilium. It typically inhabits the dense undergrowth of montane forests, foraging for insects and small fruits.
