Rosy-throated Longclaw
NameRosy-throated Longclaw
Common NameRosy-throated Longclaw
Scientific NameMacronyx ameliae
FamilyMotacillidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit a distinctive rosy-red throat patch bordered by black, extending to bright orange underparts. The upperparts are heavily streaked brown and black, with a pale supercilium. Females have duller plumage, with a paler pinkish throat and less vibrant orange on the belly.
Vocalization / CallIts call is described as a high-pitched, clear "tsee-tsee" or "tseep-tseep" often given in flight or from a perch. It also has a more complex song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across south-central Africa, including parts of Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying Featuresrosy-red throat (males), orange belly, streaked brown upperparts, long hind claw, ground-dwelling in grasslands
Description
This striking longclaw is characterized by its bright rosy-red throat and orange underparts, contrasting with a heavily streaked brown back. It typically forages on the ground in moist grasslands, often perching on low vegetation or rocks to survey its surroundings.
