The western black-eared wheatear is a wheatear, a small migratory passerine bird that was formerly classed as a member of the thrush family Turdidae, but is now considered to be an Old World flycatcher. It was formerly considered conspecific with the eastern black-eared wheatear.
Region
Mediterranean Basin
Typical Environment
Breeds from the Iberian Peninsula and southern France through parts of Italy and into northwest Africa, favoring dry, open, rocky slopes with scattered shrubs, garrigue, and traditional farmland such as olive groves and vineyards. During migration it moves through the western Mediterranean and North Africa to winter in the Sahel from Mauritania to Sudan. It often uses stone walls, quarries, and banks for nesting cavities and perches. In winter it frequents semi-arid savannas and open scrub. The species requires open ground for foraging and scattered elevated vantage points for hunting.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small passerine of the Old World flycatcher family breeds around the western Mediterranean and winters in the Sahel. Males show two distinct plumage morphs (black-throated and pale-throated), which can occur within the same population. It frequently flicks its tail to reveal a striking white tail with a black terminal band. Formerly lumped with the eastern black-eared wheatear, it is now treated as a separate species.
Oenanthe hispanica MHNT
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Breeding pairs are monogamous and defend territories. Nests are placed in holes in banks, walls, rock crevices, or under stones, lined with grasses and hair. Clutches typically contain 4–6 eggs, and both parents feed the young. Outside breeding, birds may gather loosely at feeding sites and during migration.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A variable, scratchy warble with whistles and trills, often delivered from a prominent perch or during short song flights. Includes harsh ‘chak’ calls and can incorporate mimicry of other species. Phrases are short, repeated, and interspersed with chatter.
Plumage
Males are pale sandy to buff above with white crown and mantle; two morphs occur: one with a black throat and ear coverts, the other lacking a black throat but retaining a black mask. Underparts are mostly white to buff, with warm tones on the flanks. Females are duller, sandy-brown with subtle mottling. The tail is white with a bold black terminal band forming an inverted T pattern.
Diet
Primarily takes insects such as beetles, ants, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders. Hunts by perching on rocks or low shrubs and sallying to the ground to pounce on prey, or by short aerial sallies. Occasionally consumes small berries and other invertebrates, especially outside the breeding season. Foraging often includes tail-flicking and short dashes over open ground.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open, stony habitats with sparse vegetation, including scrubby hillsides, pastures, vineyards, and olive groves. Frequently uses exposed rocks, posts, or walls as vantage points. In winter, favors semi-arid savannas and open scrub near scattered bushes.
