Red-capped Robin-Chat

The Red-capped Robin-chat, also known as the Natal Robin (Cossypha natalensis), presents a striking figure with its predominantly orange-brown plumage contrasted by slate-grey wings and a darker tail. This bird is a member of the Muscicapidae family, which includes the Old World flycatchers.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Red-capped Robin-chat, look for its bright underpart plumage, which is a vivid orange-brown. The wings are a distinct slate-grey, providing a contrast that is quite noticeable.

Habitat

This species thrives in subtropical or tropical dry forests, where it can often be found flitting about in the understory.

Distribution

The Red-capped Robin-chat has a broad range across the African continent. It can be spotted in countries such as Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Red-capped Robin-chat as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation action.