The sickle-winged chat or sicklewing chat is a small passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae endemic to southern Africa. It is a common resident breeder in South Africa and Lesotho, and is also found in southernmost areas of Botswana and Namibia. Its habitat is Karoo scrub, short grassland, and barren sandy or stony areas. In western coastal areas, it also occurs on agricultural land.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across the interior of South Africa and Lesotho, with extensions into southernmost Namibia and Botswana. Prefers semi-arid Karoo scrub, short grasslands, and barren sandy or stony flats. In the western coastal belt it readily uses agricultural lands, road verges, and fallow fields. It favors open, sparsely vegetated landscapes with scattered perches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for the gently curved primaries that give the wings a sickle-like outline in flight, this chat often perches on rocks, fenceposts, and low shrubs to scan for prey. It is a ground-oriented forager, frequently flicking its tail to reveal contrasting tail patterns. Nests are usually tucked into holes, banks, or among stones, and both parents attend the young.
In Natal, South Africa
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
low, direct flights with short rapid wingbeats; shows curved wings and flashing tail pattern when moving between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or family parties; pairs are territorial in the breeding season. Nests are placed in cavities, holes in banks, or among rocks, lined with fine plant material. Both adults participate in provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, thin, and tinkling series of notes interspersed with sharp chips, delivered from exposed perches. Calls include dry ticks and chatters used for contact and alarm.
