The black-throated apalis is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is native to the Western High Plateau, the Albertine Rift montane forests and the east African montane forests and isolated lowland areas of Cameroon, the DRC and Angola.
Region
Central and East African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Western High Plateau of Cameroon across the Albertine Rift montane forests into the East African highlands, with isolated occurrences in lowland forest patches of Cameroon, the DRC, and Angola. Prefers montane evergreen forest, forest edges, and dense secondary growth, often near clearings and along riparian thickets. It uses tangles, bamboo, and vine-laden shrubs for cover while foraging. The species readily occupies disturbed habitats provided there is dense understory and mid-story structure.
Altitude Range
900–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-throated apalis is a small, active forest warbler of Central and East African highlands. Males show a striking black throat contrasting with white underparts, while females are paler with a less extensive dark throat. It often forages in pairs and joins mixed-species flocks along forest edges and secondary growth. Its rapid, high-pitched duets are a characteristic sound of montane forest edges.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between shrubs
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups that maintain territories year-round. Commonly joins mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through mid-story and understory. Builds a neat, suspended cup nest concealed in dense vegetation, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, high-pitched series of tinkling notes often delivered as a duet between mates. Calls include sharp ticks and thin seeps given while foraging in dense cover.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a grayish head; male shows a solid black throat and upper breast grading to clean white underparts, while the female’s throat is paler and more limited. Tail often shows white outer feathers and is frequently flicked. Subtle pale supercilium is present in many individuals.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects and other arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and vine tangles. It picks prey from the mid-story and understory and occasionally hover-gleans. Small spiders and soft-bodied larvae are common items, and it may sally short distances to snatch flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, secondary growth, and dense shrub layers within montane evergreen forest. Often concentrates activity in thickets, bamboo stands, and vine tangles where prey is abundant.
