The pririt batis also known as the pririt puff-back flycatcher or pririt puffback, is a small passerine bird in the wattle-eye family. It is resident in Southern Africa and southwestern Angola.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwestern Angola through much of Namibia into western and central Botswana and northwestern South Africa (notably the Northern Cape and adjacent arid savannas). It favors arid to semi-arid thornscrub and Acacia or Vachellia savanna, mopane woodland, and dry riverine thickets. It also uses farm edges, gardens, and windbreaks in otherwise dry landscapes. Typically found in open woodland with scattered trees and ample perches from which it forages.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the pririt puff-back, this tiny flycatcher-like bird often flicks its tail and puffs up its back feathers during displays, giving rise to its nickname. It hunts by sallying from exposed perches and is usually seen in pairs defending small territories. Its bright yellow eyes and crisp black-and-white pattern make it conspicuous despite its small size.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups that maintain year-round territories. Displays include tail-flicking and puffing of the back feathers. The small cup nest is placed in a fork of a shrub or tree and is camouflaged with spider webs and lichens; both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A sharp, repetitive prrrit or pririt call that carries well, often delivered from an exposed perch. Also gives high, thin trills and scolding chatters when alarmed, especially near the nest.
