Yellow-breasted Apalis

The Yellow-breasted Apalis (Apalis flavida) is a charming bird, a member of the Cisticolidae family. It presents a striking appearance with its vibrant yellow breast, a feature that has lent the species its common name.

Identification Tips

When endeavoring to identify the Yellow-breasted Apalis, one should note the male's bright yellow underparts and the female's slightly paler hue. The species is characterized by its small size and active nature, flitting about the foliage in search of sustenance.

Habitat

The natural habitats of the Yellow-breasted Apalis are diverse, ranging from subtropical or tropical dry forests to moist lowland forests. It is also found in dry and moist savanna environments, where it thrives amidst the grasses and trees.

Distribution

This species has a broad range across the African continent, being found in countries such as Angola, Benin, Botswana, and many others, stretching from the western nations of Sierra Leone and Guinea to the eastern expanses of Kenya and Tanzania, and down to the southern tip in South Africa.

Behaviour

The Yellow-breasted Apalis is known for its active demeanor. Observers will note its constant movement as it searches for food, flitting from branch to branch with a restless energy.

Similar Species

The Brown-tailed Apalis (A. flavocincta) was once considered conspecific with the Yellow-breasted Apalis. However, as of 2021, the IOC recognizes it as a distinct species, so careful observation is required to distinguish between these two closely related birds.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Yellow-breasted Apalis as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, the species does not face any imminent threat of extinction and enjoys a stable population across its wide range.