The yellow-vented eremomela is a species of bird formerly placed in the "Old World warbler" assemblage, but now placed in the family Cisticolidae. It is found in dry savannas in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Region
East Africa (Horn of Africa and adjacent regions)
Typical Environment
It occurs patchily across dry savannas and thornbush from eastern Ethiopia and Somalia south through Kenya to Tanzania, and west into Uganda. The species favors Acacia-Commiphora bushland, semi-arid scrub, and open woodland edges. It is most frequently encountered in low, shrubby vegetation and the lower to mid-levels of small trees. Human-modified habitats with scattered thorn trees can also be used if sufficient cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A lively, foliage-gleaning warbler of the family Cisticolidae, the yellow-vented eremomela is named for its bright yellow undertail coverts. It often joins mixed-species foraging parties in acacia and thorn scrub, moving restlessly through branches. Its bright vent patch can be flashed during social interactions and alarm displays. The species is well adapted to dry savanna and thornbush landscapes of East Africa.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between bushes
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with soft contact calls while foraging. Nesting is by monogamous pairs, with a small cup nest placed low in shrubs or small trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of high, thin, rapid notes and trills delivered in short bursts. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy twittering that help groups stay in contact while moving through shrubs.
Plumage
Small, slim warbler with gray-olive to brownish upperparts and whitish underparts, contrasting with a bright yellow vent and undertail coverts. The throat is pale, often clean white, and the face may show a faint pale supercilium. Wings and tail are plain with subtle pale edging.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. It gleans prey from leaves and twigs, probing in clusters of foliage and along thorny branches. Occasional sallying flights are made to snatch flushed insects. It may take tiny berries opportunistically but remains strongly insectivorous.
Preferred Environment
Forages in acacia and thorn scrub, open savanna with scattered bushes, and edges of dry woodland. It tends to work the lower to mid canopy, moving quickly through dense foliage.
