The dapple-throat is a species of bird in the small African family Modulatricidae. Other common names include dappled mountain robin and dappled mountain greenbul. It is native to Mozambique and Tanzania. This is the only species in the monotypic genus Arcanator.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains and northern Mozambique montane isolates
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and submontane forests with dense tangles, vine thickets, and bamboo or cane along gullies and streams. It favors shaded, mossy slopes and heavily vegetated forest floor and understory, often near water. Populations are scattered across the Eastern Arc ranges of Tanzania and isolated inselbergs in northern Mozambique (e.g., Namuli–Mabu–Chiperone complex). It generally avoids open areas and heavily disturbed forest, persisting best where continuous canopy and thick understory remain.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dapple-throat is the sole member of its genus and belongs to the small African family Modulatricidae. It is a shy, ground-favoring forest bird that often keeps to dense undergrowth, making it easy to overlook. Its range is highly fragmented across a few montane forest blocks in Tanzania and northern Mozambique. Habitat loss and degradation are the primary concerns for this species.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, moving quietly through low understory and forest floor. Likely monogamous, with pairs maintaining small territories in suitable thickets. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation or tangles, where both parents participate in care. It occasionally associates loosely with mixed-species flocks at lower strata but typically keeps to itself.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles and piping phrases delivered from low perches within cover. Pairs may engage in soft duets or antiphonal phrases. Calls include thin seep notes and soft chatters when moving through dense foliage.
