ebirdAfrican Stonechat (Saxicola torquatus) – This brightly plumaged and alert songbird brings life to the ornithological garden of the hotel-restaurant Au Bois Vert, just a stone’s throw from Ivato International Airport.
What does it look like?
Small but remarkable, the male African Stonechat has a dark bluish head, white-barred wings, and a strikingly bright orange chest. It measures between 12 and 13 cm and weighs around 13 to 17 grams.
Its song or cry
It emits a lively warble, interspersed with sharp, clear notes. Its alarm call, a "tac-tac-tac," often catches visitors' attention, adding a lively atmosphere to the Au Bois Vert hotel.
An anecdote or fun fact
The scientific name torquatus means "collared," referring to the white band on its throat.
Where and when to see it in our garden?
The best time to observe it is at dawn and late afternoon, when it keeps watch over reed beds or bushes. It is often seen perched on a post or a low branch.
Why does he love our garden?
The African Stonechat loves hunting small insects in grassy, open areas. Our hotel-restaurant, with its diverse green spaces, offers it a natural buffet and a perfect refuge.
Tips for observing it
Choose a spot near the bushes at dawn or dusk. Be very patient: it likes to return to the same perches. With a good pair of binoculars, you’ll easily spot its beautiful contrasts.
