Rattling Cisticola
NameRattling Cisticola
Common NameRattling Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola chiniana
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsFeatures a rufous-brown crown, streaked brown upperparts, and pale buffy-white underparts. The tail is relatively long and often appears fanned.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a loud, dry, rattling trill, often given from an exposed perch. It also produces various chirps and whistles.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from eastern Africa (e.g., Kenya, Tanzania) west to parts of Angola and Namibia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesRufous crown, Streaked brown back, Pale underparts, Relatively long tail, Distinctive rattling call
Description
The Rattling Cisticola is a small, rather plain brown bird with a distinctive rufous crown and streaked upperparts. It is known for its loud, dry rattling call, often delivered from an exposed perch in its savanna and woodland habitats.
