Region

East African Highlands

Typical Environment

Occurs in highland regions of Kenya, northern Tanzania, and southwestern Uganda. It favors moist montane grasslands, high-elevation shrublands, and forest edges with rank vegetation. Populations are patchy, tracking suitable tall grass and heath mosaics rather than continuous ranges. It is generally sedentary within territories but may make local movements following vegetation growth after rains.

Altitude Range

1500–3200 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

skulking but vocal

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, bouncing flights

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs or small family groups that maintain territories year-round. Pairs perform antiphonal duets to advertise territory and maintain pair bonds. The nest is a domed structure of grasses and plant fibers placed low in dense vegetation; breeding often coincides with rainy seasons.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

The song is a series of sharp chips and thin trills delivered from low perches or within cover, often given antiphonally by a pair. Calls include soft tseep notes and harsher buzzes during display flights.

Diet

Primarily takes small insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. It gleans from grass stems and low shrubs and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch flushed prey. Foraging is typically methodical and close to the ground, using cover to remain concealed.

Preferred Environment

Feeds in tall, moist montane grasses, bracken, and heath edges, especially near forest margins and boggy valleys. Often concentrates where seed heads and flower heads harbor abundant arthropods.