The white-browed robin-chat, also known as Heuglin's robin, is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. Found in east, central and southern Africa, its natural habitats include riverine forest and thickets, and it is also found near humans. The IUCN classifies it as a least-concern species.
Region
East, Central and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Kenya and Tanzania south through Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and into northeastern South Africa, and west into Zambia and southern DRC and Angola where suitable habitat exists. It favors riverine woodland, evergreen thickets, forest edges, and well-vegetated gardens. Often associated with watercourses and dense understory. Common in suburban areas with mature trees and tangled shrub layers.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-browed robin-chat (Heuglin's robin) is famed for its rich, melodious song and impressive mimicry of other birds. It readily adapts to human-modified habitats, often frequenting gardens and parks with dense shrubbery. Most vocal at dawn and dusk, it delivers long sequences of whistles and phrases from concealed perches.
Photographed at Queen Elizabeth NP, Uganda
Temperament
shy but adaptable and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low and within cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining well-defined territories, especially during breeding. Pairs are monogamous, with nesting in dense tangles, creepers, or low shrubs. The cup nest is concealed; the female incubates while both adults feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles delivered in varied phrases, often with skillful mimicry of other species. Most vocal at dawn and dusk; calls include sharp chack notes when alarmed.
