White-browed Bush Chat

The White-browed Bush Chat, also known as Stoliczka's Bushchat, is a member of the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. This bird is named after Ferdinand Stoliczka, a geologist and explorer who discovered the species. It is characterized by its distinctive white brow, which stands out against its otherwise muted plumage.

Identification Tips

Adult males in non-breeding plumage can be identified by their pale, sandy-brown coloration, which provides excellent camouflage in their desert habitat. The white brow is a key feature for identification, along with a relatively large bill for the genus Saxicola.

Habitat

The White-browed Bush Chat is a desert specialist, favoring semi-arid regions where it can blend into its sandy surroundings.

Distribution

This species is found primarily in north-western India and eastern Pakistan. There have been occasional sightings as far east as the Bharatpur area of Rajasthan and as far south as Goa and Pune. Historical records also exist of sightings in southern Afghanistan.

Behaviour

The White-browed Bush Chat has been observed performing a "puff and roll" display, which is likely part of its mating or territorial behavior.

Conservation status

The White-browed Bush Chat is currently classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Its population is small and declining due to agricultural intensification and habitat encroachment.