Seasonal abundance and distribution of Red-capped Robin Chat Cossypha natalensis in the Eastern Arc Mountains, Tanzania

Abstract

In Africa, the migratory status of the Red-capped Robin Chat Cossypha natalensis is still not well understood. In some areas, this species has been regarded as either a full or a partial migrant, whereas in other parts of its range, it has been considered as a resident. Here I used my own data and a review of the literature on this species, to assess whether it shows seasonal abundance and distribution in the Eastern Arc Mountains, Tanzania. In order to confirm any partial migration of the Red-capped Robin Chat, I assess its seasonal abundance with those of the Little Greenbul Andropadus virens, an altitudinal migrant, and Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura, a resident. Results show that the Red-capped Robin Chat is possibly a partial migrant in the Eastern Arc Mountains, being more abundant during the hot season than in the cold season.