Croaking Cisticola

Overview

The croaking cisticola (Cisticola natalensis) is an Old World warbler in the family Cisticolidae and the largest member of its genus. It is a resident breeder found throughout Africa south of the Sahara.

Identification

• This species is the largest cisticola, measuring approximately 14 cm in length.
• Plumage is grey-brown above with heavy black streaking, whitish underparts, and a distinct chestnut wing-panel.
• Features include a heavy bill and a broad, pale-tipped tail that is flicked frequently.
• Best identified by its unique, frog-like croaking 'breep-breep' song, which is often heard when the bird is not visible.

Habitat

The croaking cisticola inhabits rank grassland environments, typically located near swamps or bodies of water.

Diet

This passerine is insectivorous, feeding on insects found within its grassland habitat.

Did you know?

The female constructs a discreet, ball-shaped nest with a side entrance, binding living leaves into a soft fabric of felted plant-down, cobwebs, and grass.