Finsch's wheatear is a wheatear, a small insectivorous passerine that was formerly classed as a member of the thrush family, Turdidae, but is now more generally considered to be an Old World flycatcher of the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Middle East and Western Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds from southeastern Europe and Anatolia through the Caucasus and the Iranian Plateau, occupying open, stony slopes, steppe, and semi-desert with scattered shrubs. Prefers rugged terrain with rocks, field margins, and low vegetation where it can perch and scan for insects. During nonbreeding it disperses southward into the Levant, Mesopotamia, Arabian Peninsula, and parts of Northeast Africa. It favors sparsely vegetated habitats and avoids dense woodland.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Finsch's wheatear is a small insectivorous passerine formerly placed in Turdidae but now in Muscicapidae. Males show striking black-and-white contrast and a classic wheatear tail pattern with a white base and black terminal band. It is named after the German naturalist Otto Finsch. The species often perches on rocks, flicking its tail while scanning for prey.
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs on breeding territories. Nests in cavities, rock crevices, walls, or burrows lined with plant fibers and hair. Males sing from prominent perches and perform display flights; both parents feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A varied, scratchy warble interspersed with clear whistles and chatters. Gives a sharp 'tchak' call note, especially when alarmed, and may include mimicry of other species in its song.
