The rufous-winged cisticola is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is found on the east coast of southern Africa.
Region
Southeast Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs along the east coast of southern Africa, especially from southern Mozambique into northeastern South Africa and Eswatini. Prefers coastal plains with dense rank grass, dune scrub, and thicket edges, as well as grassy clearings in woodland. It frequents ecotones where tall grasses meet scattered shrubs, often near wetlands and along drainage lines. After burns, it uses regenerating grass for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The rufous-winged cisticola is a small, skulking warbler of dense grass and coastal scrub along the east coast of southern Africa. Males often sing from exposed perches or during brief display flights, showing rich rufous wing panels. Like many cisticolas, it builds a neat, ball-shaped nest of grasses bound with spider silk low in vegetation. Its subtle plumage makes voice and habitat key to identification.
Cisticola galactotes
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bouncing display flights
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when males defend small territories. The nest is a neat, ball-shaped structure of grasses bound with spider silk, placed low in dense grass or shrubs. Pairs are monogamous for the season and keep close to cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, tinkling series of notes and buzzy trills, often delivered from an exposed perch. Calls include sharp ticks and dry rattles, useful for detecting birds hidden in dense grass.
