The marsh tchagra or blackcap bush-shrike is a species of passerine bird placed in the monotypic genus Bocagia in the family Malaconotidae. It is native to marshes in the tropics and subtropics of Africa. It is sometimes placed in the genus Tchagra.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily but widely in marshes, papyrus swamps, flooded grasslands, and reedbeds adjacent to rivers and lakes. It favors dense emergent vegetation with scattered shrubs or sedges, often at the edges of permanent or seasonal wetlands. In some regions it also uses wet thickets along drainage lines and dam margins. It generally avoids dry open habitats, remaining tied to wetland cover year-round.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the blackcap bush-shrike, the marsh tchagra is the sole member of the genus Bocagia and belongs to the bushshrike family Malaconotidae. It is closely associated with reedy wetlands and papyrus swamps across tropical Africa, where it stays low and hidden. Some authorities have placed it in the genus Tchagra due to similarities in structure and behavior. Its mellow whistled songs are often given in duets from concealed perches.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, keeping close to dense marsh vegetation. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with antiphonal duets. The nest is a small cup placed low in reeds or thick wetland cover, where both adults may assist in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of mellow, whistled phrases often delivered responsively by a pair. Calls include soft clucks and harsher scolds when disturbed, all typically given from concealed perches within reeds.
