The Swamp Flycatcher (*Muscicapa aquatica*) is a distinctive African flycatcher specialized for wetland habitats. It is a small, plain brown bird with a pale belly, often seen perched low over water.
Where to spot
Found in reedbeds, papyrus swamps, and other dense vegetation along the edges of rivers, lakes, and marshes across central and eastern Africa.
How to spot
Look for its preference for wetland vegetation. It typically perches low, often on reeds or sedges, and makes short flights to snatch insects. Listen for its quiet, unassuming calls.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its wetland habitats. It is generally active throughout the day, often foraging in the early morning and late afternoon.
Where to spot
Found in reedbeds, papyrus swamps, and other dense vegetation along the edges of rivers, lakes, and marshes across central and eastern Africa.
How to spot
Look for its preference for wetland vegetation. It typically perches low, often on reeds or sedges, and makes short flights to snatch insects. Listen for its quiet, unassuming calls.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its wetland habitats. It is generally active throughout the day, often foraging in the early morning and late afternoon.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Unlike many flycatchers that prefer dry woodlands, this species is uniquely adapted to aquatic environments, foraging for insects around water bodies.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.