The tawny-flanked prinia is a small passerine bird belonging to the genus Prinia in the family Cisticolidae, a family of Old World warblers. It is widespread and common in most parts of Africa south of the Sahara. The plain prinia of southern Asia was formerly included in this species but is now usually considered to be a separate species.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Common in savannas, open woodland edges, scrub, fallow fields, reedbeds, and suburban gardens. It favors dense, low vegetation where it can skulk while gleaning prey. Generally avoids dense primary forest and the most arid deserts but occurs along riverine thickets and irrigated areas. Readily occupies agricultural mosaics and parks in towns. Often one of the most conspicuous small songbirds in suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, restless warbler of thickets and gardens, the tawny-flanked prinia constantly flicks and cocks its long tail as it forages. Its repetitive, tinkling song is often heard before the bird is seen. The species is widespread with many subspecies across sub-Saharan Africa, adapting well to human-altered habitats. Nests are compact, woven structures placed low in shrubs or grasses.
In South Africa
Temperament
active and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, keeping to low cover while foraging. Monogamous pairs hold small territories and build neat, woven nests low in shrubs or tall grasses. Breeding often coincides with rains, and both sexes participate in nest building and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A repetitive, high-pitched tinkling or trilling series, often delivered from a semi-exposed perch. Also gives sharp chips and scolding calls while moving through cover.
Plumage
Upperparts grey-brown with fine, plain texture; underparts whitish to buff with warm tawny flanks. Tail long and graduated, often held cocked, with darker subterminal bars. Overall plain-faced but with a faint pale eyebrow and clean throat.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and hemipterans. Prey is gleaned from leaves, stems, and grass heads, and occasionally snatched in brief sallies. Will sometimes take small larvae hidden in rolled leaves.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense low shrubs, grass tussocks, and reed margins, frequently along edges and in gardens. Uses cover for protection while making short, rapid movements between perches.
