The Croaking Cisticolas (Cisticola natalensis) are very small insectivorous birds.found in Africa south of the Sahara. They are usually found in rank grassland habitats, often near swamps or water.
Description
The plumage is grey-brown above, heavily streaked with black. The underparts are whitish, and the tail is broad, pale-tipped and flicked frequently. It has a chestnut wing-panel and a heavy bill.
It is very similar to other members of its genus. It is best distinguished from its many African relatives by its size a
These birds are more easily heard than seen, and because of their small size (about 14 cm) not always easy to recognise, particularly outside the breeding season when they seldom emerge from their grasses.
Cisticola Information Page … Index of Cisticola Species … Photos of the Different Cisticola Species for Identification
Nesting / Breeding
Males will pair up with several females. The females alone build a nest deep in the grasses, often binding living leaves into the soft fabric of felted plant-down, cobwebs, and grass. The Croaking Cisticola’s nest is a ball shape with a side entrance.
The average clutch consists of 2 – 4 eggs.
Calls / Vocalizations
Its song has been described as a froglike croaking breep-breep.
