West African Batis
NameWest African Batis
Common NameWest African Batis
Scientific NameBatis occulta
FamilyPlatysteiridae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy black upperparts, a broad black breast band, and pure white underparts. They display a prominent white supercilium and a small white patch on the wing. Females are similar but have a rufous-chestnut breast band and often a rufous wash on the flanks. Both sexes have dark eyes and a small black bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of a series of high-pitched, whistled notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee' or 'chip-chip-chip', which can sometimes accelerate into a trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to West Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone eastward through Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria, extending into western Cameroon.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Black and white plumage (male), Rufous breast band (female), White supercilium, Black breast band (male), Forest habitat
Description
The West African Batis is a small, active flycatcher-like bird found in the understory of West African forests. Males are strikingly patterned in black and white, while females feature a rufous breast band. They are typically observed foraging for insects among the foliage.
