The mocking cliff chat, mocking chat or cliff chat, is a species of chat in the family Muscicapidae which occurs in rocky habitats in much of eastern Sub-Saharan Africa. It is the only species placed in the genus Thamnolaea.
Region
Eastern and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Found from the Horn of Africa south through Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and northeastern South Africa, with scattered populations in adjacent countries. It occupies rocky habitats including cliffs, escarpments, boulder fields, and kopjes, and readily uses human structures such as bridges and ruins. Prefers areas with nearby open ground and scattered shrubs or trees for perching and foraging. Often occurs along river gorges and in hilly savannas, where vertical rock faces provide nesting sites.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A cliff-dwelling chat of eastern and southern Africa, it favors rocky gorges, boulder-strewn hillsides, and even old buildings. Pairs are strongly territorial and often perform soft duets. The species is an adept mimic, weaving phrases of other birds into a rich, varied song. Nests are typically tucked into rock crevices or wall cavities and lined with fine materials.
T. c. subrufipennis in Kenya
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between rocks
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs that defend rocky territories year-round. Nests are built in crevices, cavities, or holes in man-made structures and are cup-shaped. Both parents attend to the young, and pairs maintain long-term bonds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, melodious, and varied with clear whistles, chattering phrases, and frequent mimicry of other species. Males sing from prominent perches on rocks or building ledges, especially at dawn and late afternoon.
