The coastal cisticola, also known as the umbabird, is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is found on the coastal plain of East Africa.
Region
East African Coastal Plain
Typical Environment
Occurs along the coastal belt of East Africa, especially in low-lying grasslands, marsh edges, and scrubby thickets near the shore. It frequents dune vegetation, the fringes of mangroves, and the edges of rice fields and wetlands. The species keeps close to dense, tall grasses and sedges, where it can forage and nest with cover. It generally avoids closed forest but will use open, disturbed habitats with enough grassy structure. Local presence can fluctuate with rainfall and grass growth.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the umbabird, the coastal cisticola is a small, skulking warbler of the East African seaboard. It favors grassy coastal plains and wetlands where it performs brief fluttering display flights while delivering a repetitive, insect-like song. Like other cisticolas, it keeps its tail cocked and often vanishes into rank grass, making it easier to hear than see.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief fluttering display flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, holding small territories in suitable grassland. During breeding, the male displays from exposed perches or in short song-flights while the pair remains close to cover. Nests are neat, domed structures hidden low in dense grass. Outside breeding, it may form loose associations with other small insectivores but remains largely inconspicuous.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a repetitive, insect-like series of buzzy notes, often delivered from a perch or during a short, bouncing display flight. Calls include sharp ticks and thin tseep notes that carry over grassland. Vocalizations are frequent at dawn and after rain when grasses are lush.
