Platysteira peltata
The Black-throated Wattle-eye (Platysteira peltata) is a small, striking passerine bird, typically measuring 12-14 cm in length. Its most distinctive feature is the prominent, fleshy, bright red wattle located above each eye, which can vary in size and intensity and is often used in display. Males are characterized by a glossy black throat and breast band, contrasting with a white belly and olive-grey upperparts, while females generally exhibit sexual dimorphism with a narrower or absent blac...
Primarily inhabits dense undergrowth, tangled thickets, riverine forests, coastal scrub, and forest edges, frequently near water sources, from sea level up to approximately 1,800 meters elevation.
Exclusively insectivorous, primarily consuming small invertebrates such as beetles, flies, moths, caterpillars, and spiders, which it gleans from foliage or catches in short aerial sallies.
This diurnal species is highly active, constantly gleaning and darting through dense vegetation in search of insects. Foraging involves a combination of gleaning invertebrates from leaves and branches, and occasional flycatching, where it sallies out to snatch flying insects in mid-air. Black-thr...
The Black-throated Wattle-eye boasts a widespread distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily inhabiting the eastern and southern portions of the continent. Its range extends from southern Somalia, south through coastal Kenya and Tanzania, continuing into Malawi, Mozambique, eastern Zimbabw...
Least Concern
- The striking red wattle above its eye is an erectile fleshy growth, believed to be a key component in courtship and territorial displays. - Despite its small size, it is a remarkably agile hunter, often described as 'mouse-like' in its ability to navigate dense undergrowth. - Females of some su...