Fülleborn's longclaw or Fuelleborn's longclaw, is a species of bird in the family Motacillidae. It is found in damp grassy habitats in south-central Africa.
Region
South-central African highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in moist montane and submontane grasslands of southwestern Tanzania, northern Malawi (including the Nyika Plateau), northeastern Zambia, and adjacent northern Mozambique. Prefers seasonally waterlogged valley bottoms (dambos), gently sloping wet meadows, and short to medium-height grasslands. It uses recently burned or lightly grazed patches where visibility is good and the sward is open. Generally avoids dense, tall rank grass and heavily cultivated areas, but may forage on the edges of small farms and fallows near wetlands.
Altitude Range
900–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named after the German physician Friedrich Fülleborn, this longclaw is tied to seasonally wet, highland grasslands known as dambos. It often performs fluttering display flights while singing during the breeding season and nests well-hidden in grass tussocks on the ground. The species is sensitive to overgrazing and drainage of wetlands, so it benefits from the conservation of intact moist grassland mosaics.
Temperament
wary and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
low, undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats; fluttering song-flights during display
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs during the breeding season, forming small loose groups in the non-breeding period where habitat is extensive. Nests are well-hidden cups placed in grass tussocks at ground level. Likely monogamous, with males performing aerial displays and song to defend territories. Uses low perches such as termite mounds or rocks for song and lookout.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, tinkling series of high notes and short trills, delivered from a low perch or during a brief display flight. Calls include sharp tsip or seee notes given in contact or alarm.
Plumage
Streaked brown upperparts with buff edges on the mantle and back, contrasting with a bright yellow to orange-yellow throat and upper breast crossed by a bold black breast band. Underparts become paler to whitish on the belly and vent. Tail is relatively long with white outer feathers; overall appearance recalls a large pipit with a striking throat and necklace.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, termites, ants, and caterpillars. Also takes other small invertebrates gleaned from the ground and low vegetation. Occasionally consumes small seeds, especially outside the breeding season, but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Forages on damp ground in short to medium grass, along the edges of wet flushes and shallow marshes, and on grazed or recently burned patches. Frequently searches around termite mounds and open patches where prey is easier to detect.
