Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush, Kakoma, Zambia, 3/10/2023

 

On a recent Zambia ringing expedition we caught a Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush Stizorhina fraseri in the forest on the banks of the West Lunga River. This appears to be the first one of the species to be ringed in Zambia. In the SAFRING database only one has been previously ringed (in Cameroon), although some have been ringed with rings from other schemes. The wing and tail were slightly larger than the measurements given in Birds of Africa (Vol 4, p455-457) although the published values probably were taken on specimens rather than live birds. Our mass of 37.7 g fits well with the published values of 27-44g. The open wing shows a distinct pale tawny wing bar.

Fact sheet:
Number ringed to date (SAFRING): 1 (CA42310 in Cameroon) [1948-2024]
Longevity: n/a in SAFRING; in NE Gabon, 2 adults ringed were recaptured 8 years later (Birds of Africa).
Trip report: BDI report
Reason special: 2nd ringed bird in Africa with SAFRING ring, ringing lifer

Dieter
Dieter is a qualified Bird Ringer and trainer, registered bird guide, and Weaver expert. Dieter is able to act as a bird guide for day trips in Cape Town, and is able to customise birds tours in South Africa and beyond.