The African blue flycatcher or blue-crested flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Stenostiridae from western and central Sub-Saharan Africa.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from forest edges and riverine woodland to secondary growth, farmbush, and wooded savanna. It is often found in gallery forests and around clearings and paths within moist lowland forests. The species also frequents plantations and well-treed gardens near forest. It is adaptable but remains tied to areas with at least moderate canopy and shrub cover.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The African blue flycatcher, also called the blue-crested flycatcher, is a small, active insect-eater of West and Central African woodlands. It often cocks and fans its long tail while foraging and may raise a small crest when alert. Pairs and family groups frequently join mixed-species flocks along forest edges. It is generally common and adaptable wherever there is tree cover.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, darting sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a neat cup nest of plant fibers, moss, and spider silk placed in a fork or on a horizontal branch. Breeding timing varies with local rainy seasons, and both adults tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of sweet trills and twitters interspersed with sharp chips. Calls are sibilant and insect-like, often given while foraging and during contact within pairs.
Plumage
Sleek, uniform blue to slate-blue with slightly darker upperparts and a somewhat paler throat and belly. Tail is long, graduated, and often fanned; a small, wispy crest can be raised. Feathers appear smooth and satin-like, especially on the head and mantle.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small flying and foliage-dwelling insects such as flies, beetles, ants, termites, and small moths. Captures prey by sallying from exposed perches and by gleaning from leaves and twigs. Occasionally hawks low over clearings and may follow swarms or disturbed insects.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, in riverine woodland, and in secondary growth with scattered trees. Also uses plantations and gardens with dense shrubs and midstory foliage.
