The tractrac chat is a small passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. It is a common resident breeder in southernmost Angola, western Namibia and western South Africa.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southernmost Angola through western Namibia into western South Africa, especially in the Namib and Karoo edge. It favors arid and semi-arid habitats including sandy and gravel deserts, coastal plains, and sparsely vegetated shrublands. It also uses stony slopes, dry riverbeds, and scattered rocky outcrops for perching and nesting. Human-altered open areas such as fencelines and tracks are occasionally used. The species is largely sedentary within its range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The tractrac chat is a pale, desert-adapted chat of southwestern Africa, well camouflaged against sand and gravel plains. It often pumps its tail and perches on low rocks or shrubs before sallying out to catch insects. The bold black-and-white tail pattern is a key field mark when it flies. It nests on or near the ground, typically sheltered under shrubs or in cavities among rocks.
The bicoloured tail pattern is a reliable field mark in any of the subspecies
Temperament
confiding and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats close to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Pairs nest on or near the ground, often under shrubs, in rock crevices, or shallow cavities lined with plant material. Adults perform tail-flicking and perch sallies when foraging and during territorial displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, varied warble interspersed with clearer whistles. Calls include dry chats and ticking notes, often given from exposed perches.
