Croaking Cisticola
NameCroaking Cisticola
Common NameCroaking Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola natalensis
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are heavily streaked dark brown on a buffy-brown background, with a rufous-brown crown and a pale supercilium. Underparts are pale buff to whitish. The tail is relatively short and often appears fanned.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a loud, frog-like 'krrrk' or 'croak', often repeated. It also has a bubbling, warbling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesStreaked brown upperparts with rufous crown, Pale underparts, Loud, frog-like croaking call, Often perches conspicuously on tall grass or bushes
Description
The Croaking Cisticola is a small, streaked brown bird found in open grasslands and savannas across sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its distinctive loud, frog-like croaking call, often given from an exposed perch atop tall grass or a bush.
