The familiar chat is a small passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. It is a common resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara in rocky and mountainous habitat and around human habitation.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across southern Africa, especially in rocky and mountainous landscapes, dry shrublands, and open country with scattered boulders. It is common in human-modified areas, including towns, farmsteads, quarries, and road cuts. The species uses natural rock crevices as well as cavities in buildings for nesting. It is largely sedentary, with only local movements in response to food availability and weather.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Often remarkably tame around people, the familiar chat readily forages in gardens, farmyards, and picnic sites. It frequently cocks and fans its tail, flashing a rufous rump with a dark tail band. Nests are commonly placed in cavities, rock crevices, woodpiles, or man‑made structures such as walls and buildings.
in Eastern Cape province, South Africa
Temperament
confiding and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes with dependent juveniles forming small family groups. Pairs are territorial during breeding and nest in cavities or crevices, including holes in walls and under eaves. Both parents provision the young and may raise multiple broods where conditions are favorable.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, pleasant warble interspersed with chatters and squeaky notes. Calls include sharp chacks and soft contact notes, often given from a rooftop, rock, or fence post.
