Zitting Cisticola
NameZitting Cisticola
Common NameZitting Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola juncidis
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)10.5
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)9.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker streaks on a paler background, often with a rufous wash on the crown and nape. Underparts are whitish to buffy. The tail is short and often fanned in flight, showing white tips.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, repetitive "zit-zit-zit" or "tzip-tzip-tzip" call, often given rapidly during its undulating display flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeExtremely widespread, found across southern Europe, Africa, much of Asia (from the Middle East to Southeast Asia and Japan), and northern Australia.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Streaky brown plumage, Short, often fanned tail, Distinctive 'zitting' call, Undulating display flight
Description
A very small, streaky brown warbler with a short tail, often seen in open, grassy habitats. It is known for its distinctive "zitting" call given during an undulating display flight.
