Cape Robin-Chat

The Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer) is a small, unassuming member of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. This bird, with its grey upper parts and vibrant orange underparts, measures a modest 16–17 cm in length and tips the scales at around 28 grams. Both sexes are similarly attired, making them indistinguishable in the field.

Identification Tips

When observing the Cape robin-chat, look for the prominent white supercilium that contrasts with the blackish lores and ear coverts. The orange rump, upper tail coverts, and outer tail feathers are striking, particularly when the bird fans its tail, revealing the greyish-brown central and rufous lateral rectrices. The bill is short and black, and the legs and feet share this dark hue.

Habitat

The Cape robin-chat is quite adaptable, favoring the edges of Afromontane forests, bracken-briar fringes, and even man-altered habitats such as city suburbs and farmstead woodlots. It thrives in environments that offer dense cover with interspersed trees or song posts.

Distribution

This species has a disjunct range stretching from South Sudan to South Africa. It is a resident breeder in eastern and southern Africa, with some populations migrating short distances in winter.

Behaviour

The Cape robin-chat is a solitary creature, often seen hopping on the ground or perching conspicuously. It is known for its tail movements, frequently jerking it up or fanning it upon landing. This bird is also a daily bather and may even indulge in tide pools.

Song & Calls

The Cape robin-chat's song is a melodious and ringing series of short phrases, often heard at dawn and dusk. Its alarm call is a distinctive, guttural trisyllabic sound, reminiscent of local names like “Jan frederik.” The species is also capable of mimicking the calls of other birds.

Breeding

Monogamous and territorial, the Cape robin-chat builds a cup-shaped nest close to the ground, often concealed by vegetation. It lays two to three eggs, which are incubated primarily by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after about two weeks but remain dependent for a further five to seven weeks.

Similar Species

The Cape robin-chat is altitudinally segregated from the red-capped robin-chat and is less of a skulker compared to its relatives. It can be distinguished by its less colorful plumage and preference for drier or higher altitude habitats.

Diet and Feeding

This bird forages for invertebrates, small frogs, and lizards within scrub or leaf litter, and also consumes fruit and seeds. It may occasionally hawk insects in the air or glean invertebrates from foliage.

Conservation status

The IUCN lists the Cape robin-chat as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival.