The green-backed eremomela is a member of the Cisticolidae. This bird is a common resident breeder in tropical Africa from Kenya and Ethiopia to Cameroon.
Region
East and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Widespread resident across dry savannas, Acacia–Commiphora bushland, and open woodland from Ethiopia and Kenya west to at least South Sudan and Cameroon. It favors thorn scrub, riparian thickets, and woodland edges, and readily uses secondary growth near cultivation. The species is adaptable within warm, semi-arid to mesic savanna mosaics, typically foraging from low shrubs to the mid-canopy. It is common in many suitable habitats and often detected by its rapid, chatty calls.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The green-backed eremomela is a tiny, hyperactive foliage-gleaner that often joins mixed-species parties in African savannas. It forages in small, chattering groups and frequently flicks its tail as it moves through acacia and thorn scrub. Pairs maintain small territories year-round and build neat cup nests low in shrubs.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with soft contact calls while foraging. Nests are small cups placed low in shrubs or small trees, with both adults participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid series of thin trills and chatters, often delivered in short bursts while moving. Contact calls are high-pitched and buzzy, helping individuals keep in touch within dense scrub.
Plumage
Olive-green back with a contrasting grayish head, pale throat, and whitish to gray underparts with a slight yellowish wash on the flanks. Wings are dusky with subtle edging; tail often appears dark with faint greenish tones. Feathers are smooth and sleek, suited for agile movement through foliage.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. It gleans prey from leaves, twigs, and small branches and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch flying insects. Foraging is quick and methodical, often accompanied by constant movement and tail flicking.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in acacia and thorn scrub, open woodland, and woodland edges, from low shrubs up to the mid-canopy. It often exploits mixed flocks to increase foraging efficiency and to flush hidden prey.
