The buff-breasted wheatear, also known as Botta's wheatear or the red-breasted wheatear, is a species of bird in the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the Asir Mountains. The species is named after Paul-Émile Botta.
Region
Southwestern Arabian Highlands
Typical Environment
Found along rocky slopes, terraced fields, and juniper-dotted highland scrub of the Asir range. It favors open, stony ground interspersed with short vegetation, boulder fields, and dry ravines (wadis). Nesting typically occurs in crevices, among stones, or in walls, with foraging on adjacent open ground. Watercourses and cultivated terraces provide seasonal insect swarms.
Altitude Range
1500–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called Botta's wheatear or red-breasted wheatear, it belongs to the Old World flycatcher family (Muscicapidae). The species name honors French naturalist Paul-Émile Botta. It often flicks its tail to reveal the characteristic wheatear tail pattern and perches conspicuously on rocks or low shrubs.
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs are monogamous, nesting in rock crevices, stone walls, or banks and defending small territories. Birds frequently perch on exposed rocks and perform tail-flicking displays while scanning for prey.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A soft, varied warble interspersed with dry chatters and 'tchack' calls. Males sing from prominent perches, especially at dawn and early morning.
