Cisticola eximius
The Black-backed Cisticola (Cisticola eximius) is a distinctive yet often elusive member of the Old World warbler family Cisticolidae, known for its cryptic behavior within dense grasslands. Measuring approximately 12-13 cm in length and weighing around 10-15 grams, it presents a striking dorsal plumage that gives it its common name: a heavily streaked or solid blackish back contrasting with paler, often buffy-white underparts. Its head is typically plain or finely streaked, and it possesses ...
Found primarily in tall, moist grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands with dense grassy undergrowth, typically at low to mid-elevations up to 2000 meters.
Feeds almost exclusively on insects and other small invertebrates, including grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, gleaned from vegetation.
The Black-backed Cisticola is a diurnal species, generally active from dawn to dusk, and roosts solitarily or in pairs deep within dense grass clumps. It forages methodically, gleaning small insects and invertebrates from grass stems and leaves, often staying low to the ground and remaining large...
The Black-backed Cisticola exhibits a somewhat disjunct distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily in regions with suitable moist grasslands and savannas. Its range extends across West Africa, including countries such as Sierra Leone, Guinea, Mali, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria,...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'eximius' translates to 'distinguished' or 'excellent', likely referencing its striking black back which stands out among cisticolas. - Males perform energetic aerial display flights, ascending high into the air while singing to attract mates and mark territory. - Its expert...