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The stripe-breasted tit is a small Albertine Rift endemic songbird of montane forest, with a glossy black head, white cheek patches, a grey back and a black stripe running down the centre of its yellowish-white underparts. In Uganda it is found in the high-altitude forests of the Rwenzori Mountains, Bwindi’s Ruhija area and Mgahinga. It forages actively in the canopy in pairs or mixed flocks with other small birds.
Stripe-Breasted Tit Uganda: Rwenzori Mountain Bird Facts
Identification and habits
Like other tits, it is restless, probing bark, mosses and leaves for insects and spiders, often hanging upside down on twigs. The black breast stripe and white cheeks separate it from other small birds in the canopy. It nests in tree holes. Mixed feeding flocks in montane forest often contain several Albertine Rift endemics, so finding one flock can bring a cluster of good birds at once.
Where to see it
Ruhija in Bwindi, at 2,300–2,600 metres, is the most accessible site, along forest roads and trails such as the route towards Mubwindi Swamp. It is also seen on Rwenzori treks and on Mgahinga’s Gorge Trail. A local bird guide who knows its calls helps a lot. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Albertine Rift endemics, the Ruhija sector, the Rwenzoris and Bwindi’s birds.
Frequently asked questions
At Ruhija in Bwindi, in the Rwenzoris and in Mgahinga.
Yes, to the Albertine Rift mountains.
A black head, white cheeks and a black stripe down a pale belly.
Insects and spiders gleaned from bark and leaves.
