Eremomela atricollis
The Black-necked Eremomela (Eremomela atricollis) is a diminutive and active passerine, belonging to the family Cisticolidae, often considered part of the broader 'Old World warblers' group. Measuring approximately 9-11 cm in length and weighing 7-10 grams, it boasts a distinctive appearance: a plain grey cap, olive-green upperparts, and striking black nuchal collar that encircles its hindneck, contrasting with whitish underparts and yellowish flanks. This black collar is its most reliable fi...
This species primarily inhabits dry miombo woodlands, especially those dominated by Brachystegia trees, and savanna woodlands, typically found at elevations between 900 and 1800 meters.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of small invertebrates, primarily insects, which they glean actively from foliage and branches.
Black-necked Eremomelas are diurnal and highly active, constantly moving through the canopy and sub-canopy in search of food. They employ an agile foraging strategy, gleaning small insects from leaves, twigs, and bark, often hanging upside down to access prey. While typically seen singly or in pa...
The Black-necked Eremomela is resident across a relatively restricted range in central-southern Africa, primarily found in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. Its distribution is largely disjunct, occurring in pockets corresponding to suitable miombo woodland habitats, oft...
Least Concern
- The genus name 'Eremomela' translates to 'desert songster,' a somewhat misleading name given the Black-necked Eremomela's preference for dense woodlands. - Its distinctive black neck collar is a crucial identification mark, especially as many other small African warblers can appear quite simila...