The olive-backed forest robin is a species of passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae that is found in the Gamba Complex in southwest Gabon. It was described in 2008. The olive-backed forest robin can be distinguished from other species in the forest robin complex by the combination of its olive upperparts, bright orange throat and chest, and cream-yellow belly. Its song is also distinct from other subspecies of the forest robin. Females are generally duller than males.
Region
West Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland evergreen rainforest of the Gamba Complex in southwest Gabon, favoring dense understory and vine tangles. It frequents the shaded forest floor and lower strata near streams, swampy patches, and terra firme–swamp forest mosaics. The species tends to avoid open or heavily degraded habitats. Records indicate a very localized distribution, with individuals remaining in well-forested tracts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Described in 2008, this secretive forest robin is confined to the Gamba Complex of Protected Areas in southwest Gabon. It is distinguished by olive upperparts, a bright orange throat and chest, and a cream-yellow belly, plus a song that differs from other forest robins. Females are generally duller than males. Its restricted range and understory habits make it rarely observed.
A female in hand
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through the understory
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, keeping low in dense understory. Likely maintains small territories during breeding, with cup-like nests placed low. Courtship and nesting behavior are poorly documented but presumed similar to other forest robins.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers clear, fluty whistles in short, measured phrases with a distinctive cadence. The song differs in pace and pitch from other members of the forest robin complex, aiding identification in dense habitat.
