Appearance
Mountain wheatear is 18–20 cm long, and like other wheatears, it has a distinctive tail pattern, with a white rump and outer tail feathers. Its legs and pointed bill are black.The male is very variable in plumage, although the tail pattern and a white shoulder patch are always present. A white and black bird. The body plumage varies from pale grey to almost black, and it may or may not have a white crown to the head. The female is entirely dark brown apart from the white rump and outer tail.
Naming
The mountain wheatear was formerly placed in the genus ''Oenanthe''. Molecular phylogenetic studies published in 2010 and 2012 found that the species was not closely related to the other members of ''Oenanthe'' and instead was genetically similar to the chats in the genus ''Myrmecocichla''. The species was therefore assigned to ''Myrmecocichla''.
Distribution
This non-migratory wheatear is resident in mountainous and rocky habitats in Namibia, Botswana, South Africa and southernmost Angola.
Behavior
The mountain wheatear's song is a clear melodic whistle interspersed with harsh chatters.Reproduction
It is monogamous and nests on the ground amongst rocks, laying 2-4 white eggs.Food
It eats insects and berries.References:
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