Senegal Batis
NameSenegal Batis
Common NameSenegal Batis
Scientific NameBatis senegalensis
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)14
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black crown, a prominent white supercilium, a black eye-stripe, and bright yellow eyes. The back is grey-black, and the underparts are white with a broad black breast band. Females are similar but often show a rufous wash on the flanks and a narrower, sometimes rufous-tinged, breast band.
Vocalization / CallTypically a series of high-pitched, whistling notes, often described as a repeated 'twee-twee-twee' or 'chip-chip-chip' with variations.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West Africa, ranging from Senegal eastwards through Gambia, southern Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, northern Ghana, Togo, Benin, and into northern Nigeria.
Identifying Featuresblack and white plumage, prominent white supercilium, black eye-stripe, bright yellow eyes, black breast band (male), small size
Description
A small, striking black and white flycatcher-like bird with bright yellow eyes. It is an active insectivore, typically found foraging in the canopy of dry woodlands and savannas.
