Stierling's Wren-Warbler
NameStierling's Wren-Warbler
Common NameStierling's Wren-Warbler
Scientific NameCalamonastes stierlingi
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)19.5
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are plain brown, contrasting with a pale supercilium and a dark eye-stripe. The underparts are whitish, heavily marked with dark brown or blackish scaling and mottling across the breast and flanks, giving a distinctive scaly appearance. The belly is typically plain whitish.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of high-pitched, often accelerating trills or whistles. It also produces various churring or buzzing contact calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to south-central Africa, found in parts of Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, primarily in miombo woodlands and savannas.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Distinctive scaly/mottled breast and flanks, Plain brown upperparts, Pale supercilium, Prefers dense undergrowth
Description
The Stierling's Wren-Warbler is a small, secretive passerine found in south-central Africa. It typically forages low in dense undergrowth, often flicking its tail while searching for insects. Its distinctive scaly plumage helps it blend into its woodland habitat.
