Copsychus sechellarum
The Seychelles Magpie-Robin, Copsychus sechellarum, is a charismatic and striking passerine, an endemic jewel of the Seychelles archipelago. This medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 25 cm (9.8 in) in length and weighing around 65g (2.3 oz), is entirely glossy black, save for a conspicuous and elegant white patch on each wing, a distinctive field mark that readily identifies it. Taxonomically, it belongs to the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae, sharing its genus Copsychus with o...
Found primarily in broadleaf coastal forests, woodlands, and dense scrub, often utilizing both native vegetation and introduced plantations. It typically inhabits low-lying areas, rarely exceeding 100 meters in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide range of invertebrates such as beetles, ants, crickets, and centipedes, which they glean from leaf litter or catch in flight. They also occasionally consume small lizards, geckos, and some fruit.
Seychelles Magpie-Robins are diurnal and highly active, spending much of their day foraging on the forest floor or within the lower canopy. They are largely solitary or observed in monogamous pairs, exhibiting strong territorial behavior that they defend vigorously with song and physical displays...
The Seychelles Magpie-Robin is endemic to the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean, where it is a non-migratory resident species. Historically, its range was much wider, encompassing several granitic islands, but by the mid-20th century, it was confined solely to Frégate Island. Through int...
Endangered
- The Seychelles Magpie-Robin is a conservation success story, having recovered from a critically low population of just 12-15 individuals in 1965. - It is often referred to as the 'phoenix' of the Seychelles, symbolizing revival from near extinction. - All current populations are descended from ...