The tiny cisticola is a species of bird in the family Cisticolidae. It is found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, and subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland.
Region
East Africa and the Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern South Sudan through southern Ethiopia and Somalia to Kenya and northern Tanzania. It favors dry savannas, tropical dry shrublands, and lowland dry grasslands with scattered thorn scrub. Often occupies Acacia–Commiphora bushland and lightly grazed or fallow fields with coarse grasses. It keeps close to cover, using low shrubs and grass tussocks for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Among the smallest cisticolas, it keeps a low profile in dry grasslands and thorny scrub, often flicking its short tail as it forages. Males deliver thin, insect-like trills from low perches and may perform brief display flights. Nests are typically well-concealed, woven from grasses close to the ground.
Temperament
skulking but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bouncing dashes
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories in the breeding season. The male sings from low perches within territory and may perform brief aerial displays. Nests are dome-like structures woven of grasses, placed low in dense tussocks or shrubs. Outside breeding, may join loose mixed groups in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched, insect-like trill or series of tseep notes delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp, dry ticks that can be easily overlooked amid insect noise.
Plumage
Very small, warm brown upperparts with fine dark streaking; underparts pale buff to whitish with a cleaner whitish throat. Tail is short and often held cocked, showing dark barring. Overall appearance is plain and sandy-toned, aiding concealment in dry grasses.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, bugs, and ants, as well as spiders and other arthropods. Gleans prey from grass stems and seed heads and occasionally makes short sallies to catch flying insects. Foraging is quick and close to cover, with frequent tail flicks.
Preferred Environment
Low, dry grasslands, thorn scrub, and edges of open bushland with scattered shrubs and tussocky grasses. Often uses lightly grazed or fallow fields and roadside verges where coarse grasses persist.
