The fiscal flycatcher is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family. It is the only species placed in the genus Sigelus. It is a resident breeder in Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique and Swaziland, and a vagrant to Namibia.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from South Africa through Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, and Mozambique, with occasional records in Namibia. It favors open habitats with scattered shrubs and trees, including fynbos, Karoo scrub, savanna edges, gardens, and agricultural margins. It is uncommon in dense forests and true deserts but thrives in ecotones and human-modified landscapes. The species is generally sedentary, shifting locally with food availability and seasonal conditions.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named for its resemblance to the black-and-white Fiscal shrikes, the fiscal flycatcher mimics their 'businesslike' plumage but is a true flycatcher. It often perches conspicuously and darts out to snatch insects mid-air, yet will also take small fruits, making it a flexible feeder. It adapts well to gardens and farmland edges and is a familiar bird across much of southern Africa.
Temperament
alert and confiding
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories, especially during breeding season. The cup-shaped nest is placed low in shrubs or small trees; clutches typically contain 2–4 eggs. Both parents feed the nestlings, and pairs may raise multiple broods in good seasons.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, sweet warble with simple, repetitive phrases interspersed with thin whistles. Calls include sharp tseet or chek notes given from exposed perches and during foraging sallies.
