Region

Central and East African montane forests

Typical Environment

Occurs in evergreen and semi-evergreen montane forests, including mature stands, edges, and well-developed secondary growth. Favours vine tangles, epiphyte-laden branches, and dense midstory near clearings and streams. It tolerates small forest fragments if the understory remains intact and will forage along forest margins. Most records are from upland belts from Angola through the Congo Basin highlands to the Albertine Rift.

Altitude Range

700–2400 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

secretive but active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs or small family groups that maintain territories year-round. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks while foraging through the midstory. The male performs display bouts by puffing the white scapulars and bowing; both sexes share nesting duties in a neat cup nest placed in a fork.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of sharp, ringing whistles and clicks, often given antiphonally by a pair. Calls can accelerate into trills or chatter during excitement and carry well through forest midstory.

Diet

Feeds mainly on arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, orthopterans, spiders, and other small invertebrates. Prey is gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark, with occasional short sallies to snatch flying insects. It may take small berries opportunistically but remains largely insectivorous.

Preferred Environment

Forages in midstory and lower canopy, especially along forest edges, gaps, and vine tangles. Frequently works methodically through dense foliage and joins mixed-species flocks to exploit disturbed or prey-rich patches.