Cisticola nigriloris
The Black-lored Cisticola (*Cisticola nigriloris*) is a diminutive yet distinctive African songbird, measuring approximately 11-13 cm in length and weighing a mere 8-10 grams. Its most striking field mark, from which it derives its name, is the prominent black loral patch situated between its eye and bill, contrasting sharply with its otherwise buffy-white underparts. The upperparts are dark streaked, often with a rufous wash on the rump, and it sports a relatively short, often cocked tail. T...
Primarily inhabits montane grasslands and savannas, often with scattered bushes or near moist areas, typically found at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates including beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, ants, flies, and spiders, gleaned methodically from grass stems and foliage.
This secretive cisticola typically skulks low in dense grass, often difficult to observe despite its distinctive vocalizations. Males are highly territorial, proclaiming their patch with vigorous, buzzy songs delivered from elevated perches or during undulating display flights. Courtship involves...
The Black-lored Cisticola is a resident species found exclusively in the montane regions of East-Central Africa. Its core distribution spans the highlands of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Within this extensive range, populations are often loca...
Least Concern
- The Black-lored Cisticola belongs to a genus of over 50 species, making Cisticolas one of the most speciose bird genera in Africa. - Its scientific name, *Cisticola nigriloris*, literally translates to "black-lored grass-dweller," highlighting its key identification feature and habitat preferen...