The grey-backed cisticola or red-headed cisticola is a small passerine bird. This cisticola is a resident breeder in southernmost Angola, Namibia and western South Africa.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Found from southern Angola through coastal and inland Namibia into western and southwestern South Africa, especially in fynbos, Karoo scrub, renosterveld, and coastal dune shrubland. Prefers low, open to moderately dense shrubbery with scattered bushes and grass tussocks. Often occupies rocky slopes, dry river washes, and edges of thornveld. Generally avoids tall, closed grasslands and wetlands, favoring semi-arid to Mediterranean-type shrub mosaics.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the red-headed cisticola, this small warbler is a resident of the arid and Mediterranean scrub of southwestern Africa. Males often deliver a conspicuous display flight while singing, despite the species usually keeping low and hidden in shrubs. Its neat, domed nest is woven close to the ground within dense scrub. The species adapts well to fynbos and Karoo habitats but avoids taller grasslands and wetlands.
Temperament
skulking but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bouncing display flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories year-round. During breeding, males sing from exposed perches and perform brief display flights. The species builds a domed nest low in dense shrub or grass, with both parents involved in care. Pairs tend to remain together within stable territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a bright, buzzy series of trills and ticking notes, often delivered from a perch or in a short display flight. Calls include dry ‘trrt’ and soft ‘tsip’ notes. The repertoire is repetitive and carries well over scrubby habitats.
