The variable wheatear is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is found in Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan.
Region
South-Central Asia and the Middle East
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Iranian Plateau and Afghanistan through Pakistan into northwestern India, with records extending into Central Asia and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It frequents stony semi-deserts, dry riverbeds, rocky escarpments, and sparsely vegetated foothills. The species also uses human-altered sites such as ruins, field margins, and roadside embankments when suitable perches and cover are present. In winter it disperses to lower, warmer, and often drier habitats.
Altitude Range
0–3200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The variable wheatear earns its name from its strikingly variable plumage, occurring in several morphs that range from mostly black-and-white to browner forms. It favors rocky deserts, scrub, and dry hillsides, often perching on boulders and flicking its tail to reveal a bold black terminal band. Like other wheatears, it nests in crevices, walls, or burrows and feeds mainly on ground-dwelling insects.
Variable wheatear trying to catch an insect in mid air in Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Nepal.
O. p. opistholeuca
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, holding open rocky territories. Nests are placed in crevices, stone walls, rodent burrows, or holes, lined with plant fibers and hair. Clutches typically contain 4–6 eggs, and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a varied, scratchy warble with clear whistles and trills delivered from a perch or short display flight. Calls include a sharp tchack and dry rattles, often given while tail-flicking.
