The Réunion stonechat is a species of stonechat, endemic to the French Indian Ocean island of Réunion. It is found across the island in forests, shrublands and artificial environments such as gardens and plantations. This small passerine bird is common in clearings and open mountain bushlands there up to 2600 metres above sea level, including in the plains around Piton de la Fournaise.
Region
Mascarene Islands (Réunion), Western Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout Réunion in open and semi-open habitats, including shrublands, montane heath, forest edges, pastures, and lava fields. It readily uses human-modified environments such as gardens, roadside verges, orchards, and plantations. The species is common in clearings and open mountain bushlands and often perches conspicuously on fences, rocks, and low branches. It avoids the densest closed-canopy forest but is widespread wherever scattered perches and low vegetation are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Réunion stonechat is confined to the island of Réunion and was once treated as part of the African stonechat complex before being recognized as a distinct species. Males give a sharp, dry “tak-tak” call reminiscent of two stones being tapped together. It readily perches on posts and shrub tops to sally for insects and thrives even in high-elevation volcanic landscapes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent short sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories year-round. Pairs nest low in dense vegetation or among rocks, building a cup-shaped nest; both parents feed the young. Courtship involves conspicuous perching, tail-flicking, and song from elevated lookouts.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a brief, varied warble interspersed with buzzy and scratchy notes delivered from exposed perches. The call is a distinctive dry, clicking 'tak-tak' reminiscent of stones being struck together.
