Southern Anteater-Chat
NameSouthern Anteater-Chat
Common NameSouthern Anteater-Chat
Scientific NameMyrmecocichla formicivora
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsAdults are almost entirely dark brown to blackish-brown, giving them a uniform appearance. A key feature is a white patch on the inner primaries, which is often visible in flight or when the wing is slightly open.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, chattering calls and whistling notes. They can produce a series of 'chick-chick-chick' or 'twee-twee-twee' sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Southern Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesUniformly dark brown plumage, White patch on inner primaries (visible in flight or at rest), Terrestrial foraging behavior, Relatively long bill and legs, Upright posture
Description
The Southern Anteater-Chat is a medium-sized, terrestrial chat found in open grasslands of Southern Africa. It is characterized by its uniformly dark brown plumage and a distinctive upright posture when foraging on the ground for insects.
