The African dusky flycatcher, also known as the dusky-brown flycatcher or dusky alseonax, is a small passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. It is a resident breeder in elevated areas of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is very common in its woodland habitat, which includes riverine forests, evergreen forest edges and clearings, especially near water bodies such as lakes, dams and streams, and well-wooded suburban gardens.
Region
Sub-Saharan African highlands
Typical Environment
Found widely in upland and montane regions across sub-Saharan Africa, especially along forest edges, riverine woodland, and well-wooded gardens. Prefers evergreen forest margins, moist gullies, and clearings near streams, lakes, and dams. Also occupies plantations and secondary growth where mature trees provide perches. Tends to avoid dense interior forest and very open savanna. Often occurs close to human settlements with tall trees.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small flycatcher is often seen perched upright on low branches, sallying out to catch insects before returning to the same or a nearby perch. It is unobtrusive and plain-colored, which makes behavior and habitat key for identification. Pairs typically hold territories year-round in well-wooded uplands and suburban gardens near water.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in brief sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs outside the breeding season; pairs maintain small territories. The nest is a neat cup of plant fibers, moss, and spider webs placed on a horizontal branch or fork. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in feeding the young. Often returns to favored perches during foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin, high-pitched phrases and tseep notes, delivered at intervals from a shaded perch. The song is simple and modest, sometimes interspersed with quiet trills and chirps.
