Bearded scrub robin

Introduction: The bold facial patterns of the bearded scrub-robins (Cercotrichas quadrivirgata) which includes a moustachial stripe (hence the name) inhabit riverine forest and broad-leaved woodland. This is a fairly quiet and shy species, who usually hop around the ground or in thickets and undergrowth.

Distribution: Linyanti Marshes, Chobe River and isolated populations in the far eastern Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip).
Diet: Forages mainly on the ground to feed on beetles, termite workers and driver ant swarms. Also takes crickets, moths, spiders, bugs, bees and wasps and flies. Does venture into trees in search of ants and caterpillars as well.

Description: Quadrivirgata refers to their alternating dark and pale facial stripes.
Breeding: 2 or 3 eggs are laid from September to December in an open cup made of rootlets and dead leaves. Incubation is performed by the female only for up to 14 days.

Size: 17cm.

Weight: 25g.