Pectoral-patch Cisticola
NamePectoral-patch Cisticola
Common NamePectoral-patch Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola brunnescens
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with a darker crown and nape. Underparts are buffy white, often featuring a variable dark pectoral patch on the breast. The tail is relatively short.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a high-pitched, insect-like 'tseep' or 'tsip', often given in flight, sometimes as a rapid series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa (e.g., Senegal) east to Ethiopia and south to Angola, Zambia, and parts of South Africa.
Identifying Featuressmall size, streaky brown upperparts, buffy white underparts, dark pectoral patch (variable), short tail, grassland habitat
Description
This small, streaky brown cisticola is typically found in open grasslands. It often perches on low vegetation, exhibiting a somewhat shy and inconspicuous behavior.
