Karoo scrub robin
Introduction: Karoo scrub-robins (Cercotrichas coryphoeus) hop and run over open ground and under cover in low shrublands and woodland dominated by sweet thorn or wild Tamarisk. They also frequent farm gardens for food. Coryphoeus was originally a French meaning for 'being the leader of the group'. Males are known to fly over mongooses, emitting a 'sizzling chatter' when a snake closes in. Also known as Karoo robin.
Distribution: From the Namib Naukluft region across to Walvis Bay, ranging southwards to the succulent and Nama Karoo.
Diet: Mostly insects are eaten, taken from the ground including ants, termites, beetles, moths and caterpillars, flies, wasps and bees. Small fruits such as honey-thorns and currants are also taken.
Description: Upper parts are a drab greyish-brown. Upper wing coverts and flight feathers brown with a whitish throat. Often confused with the pale and browner Kalahari scrub-robin. Songs vary between individuals.
Breeding: From 2 to 4 eggs are laid from August to November, incubated for around 15 days.
Size: 17cm.
Weight: 18g.
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