The pale flycatcher is a passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae, found in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs broadly from West and East Africa through south-central regions to the north of South Africa. It inhabits open woodland, savanna, thornveld, and riparian thickets, especially areas with scattered trees and clear perches. Frequently uses edges of miombo and mopane woodland and will forage in gardens and farmsteads. Often near watercourses but not strictly tied to them. It tolerates lightly modified habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The pale flycatcher is a widespread African member of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae, often seen sallying from low perches to snap up insects. It favors open woodland and savanna with scattered trees and is frequently found near human settlements and garden edges. Its plain, pale coloration and upright, watchful stance help distinguish it from similar, darker flycatchers.
Lake Navasha Country Club - Kenya
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from a perch
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining small feeding territories. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and build a neat cup nest placed in a branch fork or sheltered cavity in a tree or shrub. Both parents participate in feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Delivers a soft series of thin, high-pitched whistles and tsip notes, often from a conspicuous perch. Calls include sharp, dry ticks given during foraging or when alarmed.
