Pririt Batis

The Pririt Batis, also known as the Pririt Puff-back Flycatcher or Pririt Puffback, is a diminutive yet robust member of the wattle-eye family. This passerine bird is adorned with a striking pattern that captivates the observer.

Identification Tips

Adult males of the species boast a dark grey crown and back, complemented by a distinctive black eye mask and a pristine white throat. The rump and tail are cloaked in black, while the wings are similarly dark with white edging on the flight feathers and a conspicuous long white shoulder patch. The underparts are primarily white, interrupted by a broad black breast band and speckles of black on the flanks. Females and juveniles present a variation in plumage, lacking the black breast band and instead featuring a warm buff colour on the throat and breast.

Habitat

The Pririt Batis is typically found in the arid expanses of broadleaf woodland and thorn scrub, where it thrives amidst the dry vegetation.

Distribution

This bird is a resident species in Southern Africa and extends its range into southwestern Angola, where it is a familiar sight in suitable habitats.

Behaviour

The Pririt Batis is an active forager, employing two distinct methods to capture its insect prey: adept flycatching and ground foraging reminiscent of a shrike's hunting technique.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Pririt Batis includes a slow, descending series of whistled notes, often transcribed as "teuu, teuu, teuu, teuu," which can be heard permeating through its dry woodland habitat.

Breeding

Nesting behavior involves constructing a small, neat cup-shaped structure, strategically placed low in a tree or bush to house the next generation.

Similar Species

While the Pririt Batis has a unique appearance, birdwatchers should take care to distinguish it from other similarly sized insectivorous birds within its range, paying close attention to its distinctive plumage and vocalizations.

Diet and Feeding

As an insectivore, the Pririt Batis's diet consists primarily of small insects, which it skillfully captures in flight or picks off from the ground.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Pririt Batis as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.