Some sources call this bird the Brown-headed Bush-shrike. Some authors treat it as a race of Three-streaked Tchagra (T. jamesi). Tchagras are members of the Bush-Shrike family (Malaconotidae), formerly considered a subfamily of the true shrikes (Laniidae) but their similarity is apparently a consequence of convergence rather than actual relationship. They are endemic to Africa and include a number of secretive birds, usually difficult to see as they forage on or near the ground. However, they have loud distinctive songs and this species will occasionally sing from an exposed perch.
Up to nine races have been described. This is one of the interior subspecies, which is said to be slightly larger and darker than the coastal populations in Tanzania.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LX5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA | hand-held (no adapter).