The white-tailed crested flycatcher is a species of bird in the flycatcher family Stenostiridae. It has a discontinuous distribution in eastern Africa. There are three subspecies, E. a. albonotata of central Kenya, and Uganda through to south west Tanzania; E. a. subvaerulea, which ranges from southern Kenya to Malawi and E. a. swynnertoni of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Region
Eastern Africa
Typical Environment
This species has a discontinuous range from central and southern Kenya and Uganda through northern Tanzania to Malawi, with separate populations in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It favors evergreen montane and submontane forests, forest edges, and well-wooded ravines. It also uses secondary growth and clearings with tall shrubs and scattered trees. Birds often forage along streams and in moist gullies where insect activity is high.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, active member of the fairy-flycatcher family (Stenostiridae), it often fans its tail to reveal striking white outer feathers while sallying for insects. It readily joins mixed-species flocks in montane forest, moving through the mid-story with quick, flicking motions. Pairs build neat, mossy cup nests on forks or ledges, typically in shaded, damp gullies.
Gatamayu Forest - Kenya
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks. Pairs maintain small territories in suitable forest patches. The nest is a neat, moss-lined cup placed on a fork, often over shaded stream banks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of trills and sibilant notes delivered from mid-level perches. Calls include sharp chips and soft tsit contact notes used while moving in flocks.
