Cape Batis

39 Replies

Batis capensis

The Cape Batis, listed as least concern by the IUCN, is endemic to Africa south of the Zambezi; parts of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Lesotho and of course South Africa, from the Western Cape to the Soutpansberg in Limpopo, where it inhabits temperate coastal, montane and riverine forests and more open adjacent areas, as well as densely planted gardens. It feeds almost exclusively on insects and other invertebrates. They are usually seen in monogamous, territorial pairs that build compact and well camouflaged cup-shaped nests during the breeding season, which spans spring and summer. Adult Cape Batisses weigh around 12g and measure just 13cm from the tips of their beaks to the tips of their tails.

Cape Batis (female)
Cape Batis (female)
Cape Batis (female)
Cape Batis (male)
Cape Batis (male)
Cape Batis
Cape Batis
Cape Batis
Cape Batis (male)
Cape Batis male
Cape Batis (photo by Joubert)

39 thoughts on “Cape Batis”

  1. Joanne Sisco

    The last photo is my favourite! I really get a sense of how pretty this little guy truly is.

    You have so many wonderfully different birds in South Africa. Being a birder must be very busy work indeed!

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. de Wets Wild Post author

      Absolutely, Joanne! Birding is a serious pastime for many South Africans and regularly adding ticks to your “life list” reason to keep visiting new places and habitats. As a family we are closing in on 600 South African species of birds seen!

      Liked by 1 person

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      2. de Wets Wild Post author

        No, we only started keeping a list after Joubert was born. Having a little one in tow meant a more leisurely pace to our outdoor pursuits, which of course is ideally suited for birdwatching. 😉

        Liked by 1 person

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