The basalt wheatear is a bird, a species of wheatear found in Jordan and Syria. It is a small passerine in a group formerly classed as members of the thrush family Turdidae, but now more generally considered to be part of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae.
Region
Levant
Typical Environment
Occurs in the basalt deserts of northeastern Jordan and adjacent southern Syria. Prefers open, stony lava fields with scattered low shrubs and grass tufts, using prominent rocks as foraging and song posts. It also frequents wadis, steppe margins, and sparsely vegetated agricultural edges near basalt outcrops. Nests are typically tucked into rock crevices or cavities among piled stones.
Altitude Range
400–1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Recently recognized as distinct within the Mourning Wheatear complex, the basalt wheatear is closely tied to black lava deserts in the Levant. It often perches conspicuously on boulders, flicking its tail to display the characteristic wheatear tail pattern. Both sexes are notably darker than many other wheatears, an adaptation to the basaltic landscape. It belongs to the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between rocks; occasional short sallies
Social Behavior
Typically encountered as solitary birds or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Forms monogamous pairs that defend small territories centered on good perches and nest crevices. Nests are placed in rock cavities or among stone piles, lined with fine plant fibers and hair.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A brief, scratchy warble interspersed with buzzy and piping notes delivered from a prominent perch. The call is a sharp, dry 'chak' or 'tac', often given when alarmed.
Plumage
Sooty to blackish overall appearance with a contrasting white rump and white tail bases capped by a black terminal band; females are dark brown and slightly duller. Plumage is sleek and plain, lacking strong mottling, enhancing its dark, uniform look against basalt rocks.
Diet
Primarily hunts ground-dwelling and flying insects such as beetles, ants, flies, caterpillars, and various spiders and other arthropods. Uses a watch-and-sally technique from exposed perches, dropping to the ground to pounce on prey. Will occasionally glean prey from rock surfaces and may take small berries opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open basalt fields, along stony plains, and at the edges of wadis where insects are concentrated. Often forages around boulder piles and low shrubs that provide both cover and vantage points.
