29-5-2019 THORNTREE CAMP, ZAMBIA - CHINSPOT BATIS (Batis molitor)

The Chinspot Batis is a small, active bird native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for the female's distinct chestnut throat spot, which gives the species its name. These birds are common in savannas and woodlands, where they forage for insects solitarily or in pairs, and are characterized by their black and white or grey plumage and a characteristic "three-blind-mice" call. 

Key facts

Appearance: A dumpy, flycatcher-like bird, approximately 12-13 cm long.

Male: Has a black throat and a broad black chest band.

Female: Has a chestnut throat spot and a chestnut chest band.

Both: Have grey caps, white eyestripes, and prominent white wing stripes.

Habitat: Prefers savanna, broadleaf woodlands, and edges of montane forests. They are also found in orchards and gardens but avoid dense forests and plantations.

Diet: Primarily insectivorous, eating flies, beetles, wasps, and other insects. They glean insects from leaves and branches or catch them in flight.

Behavior:

Social: Often found singly or in pairs, but will join mixed-species flocks. Males defend their territory year-round.

Vocalization: Makes a distinctive three-note, downslurred "three-blind-mice" call.

Breeding:

Nest: Both parents build a cup-shaped nest from plant fibers and spiderwebs, often camouflaged with lichen.

Eggs: Lays 1-4 eggs, with both parents incubating for about 18 days.

Chicks: Fledge after about 16-18 days and stay with parents for another 6-14 weeks.

Distribution: Widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, from Kenya and Angola southwards.

Conservation Status: Listed as "least concern" by the IUCN due to stable populations and wide distribution.