The African shrike-flycatcher or red-eyed shrike-flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Vangidae. It is the only species in the monotypic genus Megabyas.
Region
West and Central Africa into parts of East Africa
Typical Environment
Found in lowland and foothill tropical forests, including primary rainforest, forest edges, and well-wooded secondary growth. It favors the mid to upper canopy but will descend to edges and clearings to forage. The species also occurs in riverine and gallery forests within savanna mosaics. It is typically patchy but widespread where suitable tree cover persists. Human-altered forests with tall trees can still support local populations.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the red-eyed shrike-flycatcher, this species is the sole member of the monotypic genus Megabyas within the Vangidae. It shows strong sexual dimorphism: males are strikingly patterned while females are more cryptic. It often joins mixed-species flocks and forages acrobatically in the mid to upper forest canopy. The vivid red iris is a key field mark in good light.
Temperament
active and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief sallies between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Pairs maintain territories and engage in coordinated foraging. The nest is a small cup placed well above ground in a tree, and both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, ringing whistles and chattering notes delivered from mid to upper canopy perches. Pairs may duet, with clear, carrying phrases that stand out over forest background noise.
Plumage
Strongly dimorphic. Male is boldly patterned with contrasting dark and light areas and a clean, crisp appearance; female is warm brown above with buffy, streaked underparts and a more diffuse pattern that blends into foliage.
Diet
Primarily hunts insects and other small arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. Foraging involves careful gleaning from leaves, twigs, and bark, punctuated by short sallies to capture flushed prey. It may occasionally take small berries, especially in lean seasons, but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid to upper canopy of mature forest, at forest edges, and along tree-lined rivers. Often joins mixed-species flocks where it exploits disturbed prey flushed by other birds.
