Bar-throated Apalis

The bar-throated apalis, Apalis thoracica, is a diminutive and graceful African passerine, a member of the Cisticolidae family. This bird is characterized by its slender build and elongated tail, measuring between 11 to 13 centimeters in length. Its plumage is variable across subspecies, with upper parts that may present as grey or green, and underparts that are typically white or pale yellow. A distinctive feature is the narrow black band across the breast, complemented by white outer tail-feathers and a pale eye. The species sports a black bill, which is fairly long, slender, and exhibits a subtle curve.

Identification Tips

When identifying the bar-throated apalis, look for the black breast band which is prominent in all forms. The females bear a resemblance to the males but can be distinguished by a narrower breast band. Juveniles may appear slightly different with buffer underparts and occasionally an incomplete breast band. The pale eye and white outer tail-feathers are also key identification markers.

Habitat

The bar-throated apalis is an inhabitant of forest and scrub areas, thriving in the Southern and East African regions. It is particularly associated with highland areas in the northern part of its range.

Distribution

This species is native to the eastern and southern Afrotropics, with its range extending from the southern and eastern parts of South Africa northward to the Chyulu Hills in Kenya. It is also found in isolated mountain ranges where certain subspecies, which may be considered separate species, reside.

Behaviour

The bar-throated apalis is known for its duetting song, a harmonious collaboration where the female's call is higher-pitched than the male's. This species is also social in its foraging habits, often joining mixed-species flocks in search of caterpillars and other insects amongst the vegetation.

Song & Calls

The duetting song of the bar-throated apalis is a distinctive auditory experience, with the female's higher-pitched call complementing the male's, creating a melodious and synchronized vocal performance.

Breeding

The breeding season for the bar-throated apalis spans from August to January. The species constructs an oval, purse-shaped nest predominantly from plant material. Typically, three bluish-white eggs adorned with reddish-brown spots are laid.

Diet and Feeding

Caterpillars and other insects form the primary diet of the bar-throated apalis. It actively forages amongst vegetation, often in the company of other bird species within mixed flocks.

Conservation status

The bar-throated apalis is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.