Wailing Cisticola
NameWailing Cisticola
Common NameWailing Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola lais
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)13.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker streaks on a paler brown background, often with a rufous wash on the crown. The underparts are buffy white, and the tail is relatively long and graduated.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive mournful, descending 'pee-uuu' or 'wee-oooo' call, often repeated, which is the origin of its common name.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in the high-altitude grasslands and fynbos regions of South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Identifying Featuresstreaky brown upperparts, rufous crown, pale buffy-white underparts, relatively long tail, mournful descending call
Description
A small, streaky brown cisticola, typically found in montane grasslands and fynbos. This species is named for its distinctive mournful, descending call. It forages actively among grasses and low vegetation for insects.
