ebirdMadagascar Magpie-Robin (Copsychus albospecularis) – Elegant and full of charm, this small singer with its upright tail gracefully livens up the paths of the ornithological garden at the hotel-restaurant Au Bois Vert, just a stone’s throw from Antananarivo International Airport.
What does it look like?
The Madagascar magpie-robin has a glossy black plumage in males, with a contrasting white shoulder patch. The female, on the other hand, is more subdued, with gray-brown tones and a reddish hue on the wings. Its slender silhouette and long tail create an elegant contrast.
Its song or cry
The Madagascar magpie-robin sings in short, rhythmic sequences, blending clear trills with sharp calls. Its rich and varied repertoire fills the garden throughout the day.
An anecdote or fun fact
The Madagascar magpie-robin shares an astonishing talent with its Asian cousins: it can mimic certain sounds it hears. This ability makes its vocalizations even richer and more captivating.
Where and when to see it in our garden?
You will spot it early in the morning and late in the afternoon, near thickets and groves. It enjoys hunting beneath garden shrubs, often around the restaurant and terraces of Au Bois Vert.
Why does he love our garden?
The Madagascar magpie-robin finds everything it needs here: dense undergrowth for shelter, moist areas for feeding, a few open lawns for moving around, and above all, a rich abundance of insects. Between the hotel, the restaurant, and the quieter corners of the garden, it feels right at home.
Tips for observing it
Settle quietly near the flowerbeds, early in the morning or late in the afternoon. With a bit of patience and a pair of binoculars, you’ll likely catch sight of its long tail flicking in the shadows of the undergrowth.
