Batis ituriensis
The Ituri Batis, *Batis ituriensis*, is a small, striking songbird endemic to the lowland rainforests of the Albertine Rift. Adults measure approximately 10-11 cm (4 inches) in length and weigh between 7-12 grams, characterized by their compact build and bold plumage. Males exhibit a glossy black head, a prominent white supercilium contrasting with a black mask, and a distinctive broad black breast band against pure white underparts. Their back is grey, wings black with a noticeable white bar...
This species primarily inhabits lowland primary and well-developed secondary evergreen rainforests. It is typically found at elevations below 1,300 meters (4,300 feet), often frequenting the forest interior, clearings, and edges.
Mainly insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects and other invertebrates. Forages primarily by gleaning from leaves and bark, and occasionally sallying for flying insects.
The Ituri Batis is a diurnal, active insectivore, typically observed singly or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks. It primarily forages by gleaning insects and other small invertebrates from foliage, branches, and tree trunks within the forest mid-story and canopy, somet...
The Ituri Batis is endemic to a restricted region of Central and East Africa, primarily found in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and western Uganda. Its core breeding and resident range extends from the Ituri Forest in eastern DRC eastward into several forest blocks in western Ugan...
Least Concern
- The Ituri Batis is named after the vast Ituri Forest in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a significant part of its restricted range. - Its bright red eye is a striking and distinctive feature that helps it stand out amongst other small forest birds. - Despite its small size, it is a remarkably...