Rüppell's black chat is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is found in the Ethiopian Highlands of Eritrea and Ethiopia from 1,800 to 2,700 metres elevation.
Region
Ethiopian Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs on rocky escarpments, basalt cliffs, boulder-strewn slopes, and old lava flows across the high plateaus of Ethiopia and northern Eritrea. It also frequents human-made stone structures, terraced fields, and ruins in highland villages. The species is typically found in open rocky terrain with scattered bushes rather than dense forest. It keeps close to broken ground and perches conspicuously on rocks, from which it forages and sings.
Altitude Range
1800–2700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named after the German naturalist Eduard Rüppell, this chat is a highland specialist of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It nests in crevices among rocks and walls, often close to human settlements on the plateau. Both sexes look very similar, which can make field identification rely more on habitat and behavior than on sexual dimorphism.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining territories on rocky slopes and cliffs. Pairs are likely monogamous within a season and nest in crevices, stone walls, or cavities among rocks. The bird often perches conspicuously on boulders, pumping its tail and sallying out for prey before returning to a vantage point.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, chat-like series of clear whistles and harsh chacks delivered from a rock perch. Calls include sharp tchack notes used in alarm and contact. The song is short, repeated, and carries well across open rocky terrain.
