Image via Macaulay Library
Southern Black-Flycatcher
- Scientific name
- Melaenornis pammelaina
- Family
- Muscicapidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Shrubland
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Southern Black-Flycatcher, Melaenornis pammelaina, is a passerine bird native to the southern regions of Africa. It was scientifically documented in the 19th century as part of the broader effort by European naturalists to catalog the diverse avian life of the African continent. These birds are characteristically found in open woodland and savanna habitats, where they are commonly observed perched conspicuously on low branches while waiting to dart out and capture insects in flight.
The species is distinguished by its entirely black plumage, which lacks the iridescent sheen found in some other flycatchers, giving it a matte appearance. Its physical profile is defined by its pointed wing shape, which aids in its agile, predatory flight, and a distinctively notched tail. These anatomical traits reflect a specialized evolutionary adaptation to a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, allowing the bird to remain stationary for long periods before reacting quickly to aerial prey.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Southern Black-Flycatcher
Southern Black-Flycatcher is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Southern Black-Flycatcher on collecto.rs?
Southern Black-Flycatcher doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Southern Black-Flycatcher?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Southern Black-Flycatcher catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Southern Black-Flycatcher is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
