The white-tailed shrike is a small passerine bird from the family Platysteiridae. It is also known as the chatshrike or ground batis. It occurs only in western Angola and Namibia in thorn scrub. It forages from ground level, where it hops about in large bounds and upright posture, to 25m above ground, scanning for insects. The very short tail, with a small black mark at the tip of the central two feathers, is always carried down, never sticking up. Its range of calls includes loud ringing territorial whistles.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Found in northwestern Namibia and adjacent southwestern Angola, mainly in arid and semi-arid thorn scrub, mopane woodland, and along dry river courses. It favors areas with scattered thorny shrubs and low trees, often with rocky outcrops that provide vantage points. The species ranges from coastal desert margins inland to the central plateau where suitable scrub persists. It is typically local but can be common where habitat is optimal.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the chatshrike or ground batis, the white-tailed shrike is the only member of its genus and belongs to the batis/wattle-eye family (Platysteiridae). It keeps its very short tail pointed downward and moves with distinctive bounding hops on or near the ground. Pairs give loud, ringing whistles to advertise territory and stay in contact in dense thorn scrub. It is a characteristic bird of arid Namibia and southwestern Angola.
White-tailed Shrike
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between bushes
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties that maintain territories year-round. Forages low and on the ground with abrupt hops and upright pauses to scan for prey. Nests are placed low in thorny shrubs; both sexes participate in breeding duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, clear, ringing whistles delivered in short series, often duetted by pairs. Also gives sharp scolds and contact notes while moving through dense scrub.
