Usambara Akalat
NameUsambara Akalat
Common NameUsambara Akalat
Scientific NameSheppardia montana
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, with a darker brown cap and ear-coverts. The underparts are paler, grayish-brown, with a whitish throat and belly. The tail and wings are dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee-twee-twee' or a trilling 'trrr-trrr-trrr'. It also gives soft 'tsip' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Usambara Mountains in northeastern Tanzania, where it is restricted to a few fragmented forest patches.
Identifying Featuressmall size, plain brown plumage, dark cap, whitish throat, shy behavior, restricted range in Usambara Mountains
Description
A small, shy bird found in the dense undergrowth of montane forests. It typically forages on the ground for insects, often flicking its tail. Its plumage is generally plain brown, providing excellent camouflage in its forest habitat.
