Subdesert Brush-Warbler
NameSubdesert Brush-Warbler
Common NameSubdesert Brush-Warbler
Scientific NameAchaetops pycnopygius
FamilyMacrosphenidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are grey-brown, with a slightly darker crown and nape. Underparts are whitish, transitioning to distinctive rufous on the flanks and vent. It has a pale supercilium above a dark eye-stripe, and a long, graduated tail. The bill is dark on the upper mandible and orange-pink on the lower mandible.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a distinctive, loud, ringing 'chip-chip-chip' or 'churr-churr-churr' often given from dense cover, as well as a series of whistled notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Namibia and southwestern Angola, typically found in arid and semi-arid regions with rocky hillsides, outcrops, and dry riverbeds.
Identifying FeaturesLong graduated tail, Rufous flanks, Pale supercilium, Bicolored bill (dark upper, orange lower), Preference for rocky, arid habitats
Description
The Subdesert Brush-Warbler is a medium-sized, long-tailed warbler found in arid, rocky environments. It is generally drab in coloration but has distinctive rufous flanks and a bicolored bill. This species is often secretive, foraging in dense scrub among rocks.
