The anteater chat or northern anteater-chat is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. Its range extends across the Sahel and the East African montane forests. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland, and subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland.
Region
Sahel and East African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the Sahel belt of West and Central Africa eastward through Sudan and South Sudan to Ethiopia and into highland areas of East Africa. It favors dry savanna, open grasslands, and sparsely wooded or scrubby country, and readily uses disturbed or lightly cultivated landscapes. Termite-rich areas are especially favored, where birds forage on and around mounds. In montane regions it occupies open slopes, pastures, and moorland edges.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as the northern anteater-chat, this species often perches conspicuously on termite mounds and fence posts in open country. It frequently nests in burrows or cavities in the ground, sometimes using old aardvark or other mammal holes. The species is adaptable and can occur in lightly grazed pastures and farmlands as well as natural savannas.
Temperament
alert and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family parties. Often perches conspicuously on termite mounds, rocks, or fence posts to scan for prey. Nests are placed in burrows or cavities in the ground, sometimes in old mammal burrows, lined with grasses and plant fibers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls include sharp chatters and clicking notes given from exposed perches. The song is a simple series of chattering phrases and whistles, delivered intermittently and often accompanied by tail flicks.
Plumage
Mostly uniform sooty to dark chocolate-brown with slightly paler feather fringes; minimal contrast overall. Feathers appear matte rather than glossy, giving a dusky look in strong light.
Diet
Primarily eats ants, termites, and other small insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and spiders. Forages by walking and hopping on the ground, picking prey from the surface and from around termite mounds. Will hawk short distances to catch flying insects and takes advantage of insects flushed by livestock or fires.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open grassy areas, termite fields, lightly grazed pastures, road verges, and edges of cultivation. Often concentrates around active termite mounds and bare patches where prey is visible.
