Sheppardia polioptera
The Grey-winged Robin-Chat (*Sheppardia polioptera*) is a charming yet elusive member of the Old World flycatcher family (Muscicapidae), endemic to the Afromontane regions of central and eastern Africa. This small, terrestrial songbird typically measures 12-14 cm in length and weighs between 10-18 grams. Its most distinctive field mark, giving it its name, is the slate-grey wings and tail, which contrast elegantly with its rufous to orange-buff flanks and belly. The back and crown are olive-b...
Found primarily in the dense undergrowth of montane and lowland evergreen forests, including riverine thickets and bamboo zones, typically at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,400 meters.
Mainly insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, which it gleans from the forest floor and low vegetation.
A primarily diurnal and crepuscular species, the Grey-winged Robin-Chat is exceptionally shy and skulking, spending most of its time foraging silently on the forest floor, often in pairs. It employs a ground-gleaning strategy, flicking leaf litter with its bill or feet to uncover hidden invertebr...
The Grey-winged Robin-Chat exhibits a notably disjunct distribution across central and eastern Africa. Its primary range includes eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (especially the Itombwe and Marungu mountains, and the Albertine Rift), western Uganda (Ruwenzori Mountains, Kibale Forest), Rwand...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name 'polioptera' directly translates from Greek as 'grey-winged', perfectly describing its most distinctive feature. - Despite its 'robin-chat' designation, it belongs to the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae, not true robins. - It is one of Africa's most elusive songbir...