The grey-backed camaroptera is a small bird in the family Cisticolidae. This bird is a resident breeder in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. Recent studies suggest this species and the green-backed camaroptera may be the same species.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa (eastern and southern)
Typical Environment
Found widely in dense thickets, scrub, and undergrowth in woodland edges, savanna mosaics, and riparian tangles. It also adapts well to gardens and secondary growth where there is ample low cover. The species keeps to the lower strata, typically below 3 meters, moving through tangled vegetation. It is a non-migratory resident across much of eastern and southern Africa, with local movements following rainfall and cover availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The grey-backed camaroptera is a small, skulking warbler often heard before it is seen, noted for its repetitive 'bleating' song. It weaves a ball-shaped nest low in dense vegetation using grass and leaves stitched with spider silk. This species is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa and is generally common in scrub and woodland edges. Taxonomy has been debated, with some authorities previously lumping it with the green-backed camaroptera.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, brief dashes
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs that maintain territories year-round. Nests are ball-shaped structures placed low in dense vegetation, built from leaves and grasses bound with spider silk. Courtship often involves duetting and responsive calling between mates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, repetitive 'bleating' series of notes, often a two-part whistle exchanged antiphonally by a pair. Calls include sharp chips and scolds delivered from within cover.
Plumage
Smooth grey back and crown with greener-tinged wings and rump; whitish throat and paler underparts with warm buff flanks. Tail is very short and often held cocked. Overall appearance is plain but neat, adapted for concealment in dense cover.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. It occasionally takes small berries or other soft plant matter, especially when insect prey is scarce. Prey is gleaned from leaves, stems, and the ground, with quick, deliberate movements.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense tangles, low shrubs, and rank grass at or near ground level. Frequently forages along woodland edges, in riverine thickets, and in scrubby gardens with ample cover.
