Black Wheatear

The Black Wheatear (Oenanthe leucura) presents itself as a strikingly plumaged bird, with males donning an almost entirely black garb, save for a white rump and a predominantly white tail. Females share a similar pattern but are cloaked in dark brown rather than the stark black of their male counterparts. This robust wheatear measures a length of 16–18 cm, making it a rather large member of its genus.

Identification Tips

When observing the Black Wheatear, look for the distinctive white rump and the white tail with a contrasting black inverted "T" pattern. This feature is key in distinguishing it from similar species. The male's black plumage and the female's dark brown coloration are also notable identification markers.

Habitat

The Black Wheatear is a bird of rugged landscapes, favoring cliffs and rocky slopes where it can be seen perched or darting about in search of sustenance.

Distribution

This bird graces the southern reaches of Spain and the western expanses of North Africa with its presence. It once bred in southern France, though it no longer does so.

Behaviour

The Black Wheatear is known to be largely sedentary, showing a strong fidelity to its chosen rocky habitats. It breeds in the crevices of rocks, where it lays a clutch of 3-6 eggs, and its diet consists mainly of insects.

Song & Calls

The male Black Wheatear's vocalizations are reminiscent of a thrush, delivering a loud and melodious song that resonates through its rocky domain.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the Black Wheatear nests in the seclusion of rock crevices, a strategy that offers protection for its offspring.

Similar Species

The White-crowned Wheatear (Oenanthe leucopyga) shares part of its range with the Black Wheatear but can be differentiated by its tail pattern, which lacks the black inverted "T" and instead has only a black center. Additionally, the White-crowned Wheatear may exhibit a white crown, a feature never present in the Black Wheatear.

Diet and Feeding

Insects form the cornerstone of the Black Wheatear's diet, with the bird actively foraging among the rocks to capture these small invertebrates.

Conservation status

The Black Wheatear is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.