The lowland masked apalis, also known as the masked apalis, is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is found in Angola, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Central and West Equatorial Africa
Typical Environment
This species inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, dry forests, and forest edge habitats across parts of Angola, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Tanzania, and Uganda. It favors dense understory, vine tangles, and secondary growth where it can forage discreetly. The bird also occurs along forest margins, clearings with thickets, and gallery forests. It generally avoids open habitats and high montane zones, remaining tied to lowland forest structure.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The lowland masked apalis is a small, active warbler of African lowland forests, often seen moving nimbly through tangles and vine-laden edges. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks, gleaning tiny insects from leaves and twigs. Pairs are known to duet, producing coordinated calls that help maintain contact in dense foliage.
Specimen at Nairobi National Museum
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with antiphonal duets. The nest is a small cup placed low in dense vegetation, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched, thin whistles and tinkling notes, often delivered as coordinated duets between pair members. Calls are quick and repetitive, carrying surprisingly well through dense understory.
