Chattering Cisticola
NameChattering Cisticola
Common NameChattering Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola ayresii
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsThis cisticola has a rufous-brown cap and nape, contrasting with greyish-brown upperparts and wings. Its underparts are whitish to pale buff. The tail is notably short, especially during the breeding season.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a rapid, high-pitched 'chattering' or 'ticking' call, often delivered during an aerial display flight. It also produces quieter 'tsip' or 'tsee' contact calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Sierra Leone in West Africa eastward to Ethiopia and southward to South Africa, often in patchy distributions.
Identifying Featuresvery small size, short tail (especially in breeding plumage), rufous-brown cap, greyish-brown back, whitish underparts, chattering display flight call
Description
The Chattering Cisticola is a very small, short-tailed warbler found in open grasslands across sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its distinctive chattering call given during an undulating display flight. This species typically forages for insects among the grass.
