The Congo moor chat or Congo moor-chat is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Congo Basin, Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland, seasonally flooded grasslands, swamp edges, and open savanna clearings within the central Congo Basin. It favors mosaics of tall grasses, sedges, and scattered shrubs, especially near riverine flats and marshy depressions. Birds use termitaria, logs, and low perches to scan for insects, moving between patches of drier ground as water levels change. It is considered local and patchy but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Congo moor chat is a little-known African chat of the family Muscicapidae, confined to the swampy lowlands of the Congo Basin. It forages close to the ground and often perches on low shrubs or termitaria to scan for prey. Because it inhabits remote, seasonally flooded habitats, it may be overlooked and is infrequently recorded. Its conservation status is currently assessed as Least Concern, but detailed population data are scarce.
Temperament
wary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over the ground
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories in suitable patches of flooded grassland. Likely monogamous, nesting low in dense grass or using cavities and sheltered nooks above damp ground. Both adults may participate in territorial defense and provisioning of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, chat-like series of whistles and soft chacks delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp ticks and dry chattering notes used in contact and alarm.
