Birds
Madagascar Magpie-robin
Copsychus albospecularis · also called madagascar magpie robins
A rich, melodic song rings out from a prominent perch as a Madagascar magpie-robin forages confidently in the open below, its glossy black-and-white plumage varying subtly in pattern depending on which part of the island it calls home.
Overview
The Madagascar magpie-robin, Copsychus albospecularis, is a Least Concern bird widespread across forest habitat throughout much of Madagascar. Its glossy black-and-white plumage, accomplished melodic song, and several distinct regional colour forms make it one of the more musically and visually notable songbirds found on the island.
A song and a look that vary by region
Unlike many widespread species that look and sound essentially the same everywhere, the Madagascar magpie-robin shows distinct regional variation in plumage pattern across different parts of the island, enough that some populations are recognized as separate subspecies.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and common across suitable forest habitat throughout much of Madagascar.
Madagascar Magpie-robin: common questions
Why is it called the Madagascar magpie-robin?
It shows a striking glossy black-and-white plumage pattern reminiscent of a magpie, combined with a melodic, robin-like song, a combination that gives the species its common name.
Does the Madagascar magpie-robin look the same across its whole range?
No, different populations across Madagascar show distinct regional variations in plumage pattern, with some forms considered separate subspecies.
What does the Madagascar magpie-robin eat?
It is an omnivore, eating insects and other small invertebrates along with some fruit.
Is the Madagascar magpie-robin shy or conspicuous?
It tends to be a confident, active forager, often seen in relatively open view on the ground and in low vegetation rather than staying hidden.