The rufous-tailed palm thrush is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Southwest Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in Angola with extension into adjacent northwestern Namibia, favoring areas where palms line rivers, oases, and settlements. It is common in palm savanna, riparian thickets, and dry woodland, and readily uses gardens, parks, and plantations when mature palms are present. It avoids dense closed forest but tolerates semi-arid conditions near permanent water. Nests are often placed in palm crowns or on ledges of buildings close to palms.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A palm-loving thrush of southwestern Africa, it is often seen around river palms and even in gardens and towns. It frequently fans and flicks its richly rufous tail while singing from exposed perches. Its melodious, varied song sometimes includes mimicry of other birds. Formerly placed with thrushes, it is now usually treated in the flycatcher family Muscicapidae.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen as singles or pairs holding territories year-round. Pairs often duet and display with tail-fanning from prominent palm fronds. The cup-shaped nest is placed in the crowns of palms or on sheltered ledges near human habitation. Both parents participate in territory defense and rearing young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, melodious series of whistles, trills, and varied phrases delivered from exposed perches. Song can be persistent at dawn and dusk and may include snippets of mimicry. Calls include sharp ticks and soft churring notes.
