The Usambara akalat, also known as the Usambara alethe or Usambara robin-chat, is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the Usambara Mountains in Tanga Region of Tanzania.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in evergreen and submontane to montane forests of the Usambara range, favoring dense understory, vine tangles, and shaded gullies. It forages mainly on or near the forest floor in leaf-litter and along stream edges. The species uses older, mature forest but may persist in well-structured secondary growth if understory is intact. Its distribution is patchy and tied to remaining forest blocks.
Altitude Range
900–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy forest robin-chat is confined to the East and West Usambara Mountains of northeastern Tanzania. It keeps to dense undergrowth and leaf-litter, making it more often heard than seen. Because it depends on intact montane forest, its presence is a good indicator of healthy habitat. Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation have put the species at risk.
Temperament
skulking and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low through understory
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs holding small territories in dense forest. Likely monogamous, nesting close to the ground in well-hidden sites among roots or low vegetation. Young are tended by both parents and remain in cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow series of clear, fluted whistles delivered from low perches within dense cover. Phrases are repeated with pauses, and soft contact calls are given while foraging. Pairs may engage in gentle duetting.
Plumage
Dull olive-brown upperparts with a warmer rufous tail; underparts are paler grayish-buff with a slightly whitish throat and subtle buff wash on the breast. Feathers are soft and plain, lacking bold patterning, aiding camouflage in deep shade.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, ants, and spiders gleaned from leaf-litter and low vegetation. It also snatches prey from the ground after short sallies. Occasionally takes small fruits or berries when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on shaded forest floors, along stream banks, and in tangled thickets where leaf-litter accumulates. Often forages in ravines and gullies with dense understory.
