The Kabobo apalis is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is endemic to the Kabobo Massif in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its natural habitat is tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Albertine Rift, eastern DR Congo
Typical Environment
Occurs only in humid montane forest on the Kabobo Massif, using the midstory and canopy of primary forest as well as well-developed secondary growth. It frequents forest edges, vine tangles, and mossy gullies, often along ridges and valleys. The species is patchy but can be locally common where intact forest persists. It occasionally joins mixed-species flocks moving through the mid-elevation belt.
Altitude Range
1500–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Kabobo apalis is a little-known warbler restricted to the Misotshi–Kabobo (Kabobo) Massif of eastern DR Congo. It is often placed close to chestnut-throated apalis but is treated as a distinct species due to its isolated range and vocal/ plumage differences. Because it is confined to a single montane block, it is sensitive to habitat loss and local disturbance.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family parties and regularly joins mixed-species flocks moving through the midstory. Likely monogamous, with cup-shaped nests placed in dense shrubs or low trees. Both adults are thought to share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers thin, high-pitched trills and rapid ticking notes, often given in short series. Pairs may duet, exchanging sharp chips and accelerating trills while foraging.
Plumage
Small, slender apalis with slate-grey upperparts and paler underparts; throat and upper breast show a warm buff to rufous wash. The tail is relatively long with contrasting white outer tail feathers; underparts otherwise whitish to pale grey. Feathers are sleek and smooth, suited to maneuvering through dense foliage.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, spiders, and other soft-bodied insects. It gleans prey from leaves and twigs and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch flushed insects. Foraging is deliberate but continuous, working methodically through foliage.
Preferred Environment
Most often forages in the midstory and lower canopy of intact montane forest, along edges, and in vine tangles. It also uses well-grown secondary forest and thickets near clearings and streams.
