The Rare Masked Apalis

The Rare Masked Apalis of Uganda: This rare, little, intriguing bird species, Apalis binotata, the Masked Apalis, is found in Uganda and other habitats of tropical and subtropical parts of Africa. It gets its name from the characteristic black mask that covers the throat and extends from the forehead. It mainly lives in the tropical rainforests of Uganda, particularly the Kibale Forest National Park. They are often confused with the rare Black-throated Apalis, though the latter has a brilliant yellow-orange underparts, black crown, and a moustachial streak that is reduced to a neck patch.

Physical Characteristics of the  rare Masked Apalis

The masked Apalis is a beautiful, medium-sized warbler with a black mask that stretches from the forehead to the throat, hence its name. It is distinguished by the grey crown and sides of the head that are separated from the black throat, and the upper breast that is divided by a narrow white stripe above the eye and a yellow stripe below. The upper parts of the bird are uniformly olive green, while the sides of the breast and flanks are a paler green that blends to grey-white on the belly. The female’s black is limited to the throat and broader, with a white neck stripe. The immature bird is completely green on the upper parts and yellowish on the breast and neck.

Habitat and distribution

Mostly in lowland woods and dense, tangled woodlands between 1200 and 1500 metres above sea level, these exceptional spots offer the opportunity to witness this uncommon bird species. Uganda’s habitats, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Kibale National Park, are home to this rare Masked Apalis. The area’s resources, such as shifts in the availability of food, are exploited by the birds, which are frequently sighted along various pathways in these dense forests and frequently close to wetlands, rivers, streams, and undergrowth vegetation. It does, however, also occur in the tropical rain forests of sub-Saharan Africa, extending southward from Equatorial Guinea, Tanzania, Senegal, Ethiopia, and Cameroon.

Behaviour and Diet

This bird species is known for its ability to blend in with the lush foliage, but it is also frequently observed darting back and forth between trees in search of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, flies, and spiders. It may join flocks of mixed species, or it may graze alone or in pairs.

Breeding and nesting of the Masked Apalis

The breeding season of this bird species occurs during the wet season, when food is plentiful, every year. This usually changes, particularly from September to November and from March to May. Usually in low shrubs and thickets, they construct their nests in dense vegetation during the nesting season. Using organic materials like grass, twigs, plant fibres, and leaf stripes that are either positioned in tree trunks, canopy, or tiny trees, they typically build cup-shaped nests.

Vocalization of the Rare Masked Apalis

Other than the Black-faced Apalis, which has a continuous buzzy call that goes, “Dreep-lip, dreep-lip,” this Masked Apalis is distinguished by its harsh, ratchet-like rasping calls. These calls are followed by a hollow, two-tone repeated with a galloping horse rhythm, which is called k’jit-k’ jit-k’ jit-k’ jit-…

Importance of Habitat Conservation of the rare Masked Apalis

As a result of ongoing human activities like farming, construction, deforestation, and settlement, there are fewer suitable locations for the Masked Apalis to nest and forage, which poses a serious threat to this endangered bird species. Thus, habitat preservation—such as the preservation of lowland forests—is crucial to preserving the Masked Apalis population. These vital habitats are preserved in part through protected areas and sustainable land-use practices.

Conclusively, the rare Masked Apalis is a remarkable bird with distinctive features and behaviours. Its presence in Uganda’s forests highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these habitats. Though the exact population size is not quantified, the stability and wide distribution suggest that the species is not currently at high risk. However, ongoing habitat protection is crucial to maintaining this status. With constant sensitization efforts, understanding and protecting the specific habitat requirements of the Masked Apalis, we can help ensure the survival of this unique bird species