The Rufous-tailed Scrub-Robin is a summer visitor and breeder in Qatar, as well as a passage migrant during spring and autumn. Known for its energetic behavior and distinctive song, it is a notable bird during its seasonal visits.
Habitat & Behavior
Preferred Habitats:
Found in areas with trees, bushes, and tamarisk thickets.
Occasionally seen near water lagoons while foraging.
Behavior:
Frequently runs along the ground, pausing to flick its wings and raise its rufous tail at an acute angle.
Males perform a melodious and varied song, often from a perch near their nesting bush.
Sometimes engages in a slow, butterfly-like song-flight during the breeding season.
Appearance & Physical Characteristics
Key Features:
Prominent white stripe above the eye (supercilium).
White-tipped tail, which is often fanned or cocked during movement.
Rufous tail adds a vibrant and distinct feature to its appearance.
Call
The Rufous-tailed Scrub-Robin delivers a beautiful, melodious, and varied song, most prominently during the breeding season. The song may also be performed in flight, adding to its unique display.
Size and Comparison
Medium-sized robin with a slimmer build compared to other robins.
Its rufous tail and white supercilium set it apart from other species in its habitat.
Seasonal Presence
Summer Visitor: Breeds in Qatar during the summer months.
Spring and Autumn Migrant: Seen passing through Qatar during spring and autumn migrations, often displaying active foraging and song behaviors.
The Rufous-tailed Scrub-Robin’s active movements, striking appearance, and melodious song make it an easily recognizable and engaging bird in Qatar’s landscapes.