The African stonechat or common stonechat is a species of the Old World flycatcher family (Muscicapidae), inhabiting sub-Saharan Africa and adjacent regions. Like the other chats, it was long assigned to the thrush family (Turdidae), to which the chats are convergent. Its scientific name refer to its appearance and habitat and means "collared rock-dweller": Saxicola from Latin saxum ("rock") + incola, torquatus, Latin for "collared".
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found widely across sub-Saharan Africa in open grasslands, savannas, fynbos, montane moorlands, and agricultural edges. It favors habitats with scattered low shrubs, fence lines, and rocks that provide elevated perches for foraging. It also occurs along coastal scrub and in burned or recently disturbed areas where low vegetation offers lookout points. Populations are mostly resident with some local or altitudinal movements following rains and prey availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The African stonechat is a small, active flycatcher that favors open country with scattered perches like shrubs, posts, and rocks. Males are easily recognized by their black head, white neck patch, and warm orange breast, while females are browner and more subdued. Pairs often perch conspicuously and give sharp, stone-clicking calls that betray their presence. They perform short sallies to snatch insects from the air or ground.
Adult male S. t. axillaris from Kenya
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs holding small territories, perching prominently and tail-flicking while scanning for prey. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense grass or shrubs; the female incubates while the male guards and both feed the young. Monogamous pairs may raise multiple broods where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a varied mix of wheezy phrases and scratchy warbles interspersed with sharp clicking notes. Calls include the characteristic 'tak-tak' that sounds like stones being struck together.
