Cisticola subruficapilla
The Grey-backed Cisticola (Cisticola subruficapilla) is a small, streaky warbler endemic to Southern Africa, revered by birders for its cryptic nature and distinctive, far-carrying song. Measuring approximately 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 inches) in length and weighing around 10-14 grams, this agile passerine is characterized by its prominent rufous crown and nape, contrasting with a variably streaked grey back, buffy-white underparts, and a relatively short, often cocked tail. Its identification can b...
This cisticola primarily inhabits dry fynbos, heathland, scrubby grasslands, and Karoo veld, often favoring areas with dense, low vegetation on slopes and rocky outcrops, found from sea level up to 2,500 meters in montane regions.
The Grey-backed Cisticola feeds almost exclusively on small invertebrates, including insects, larvae, and spiders, which it gleans meticulously from the leaves, stems, and seed heads of grasses and low shrubs.
Grey-backed Cisticolas are primarily diurnal, spending much of their day foraging actively though often remaining well-concealed within dense vegetation. Males are highly territorial, defending their breeding patches with vigorous aerial song flights, ascending steeply before parachuting down whi...
The Grey-backed Cisticola is a widespread resident species endemic to Southern Africa, primarily found across South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Its distribution extends into southeastern Namibia, southwestern Zimbabwe, eastern Botswana, and limited areas of southern Angola and southern Mozambi...
Least Concern
- Despite its commonality, the Grey-backed Cisticola is notoriously difficult to spot, often heard but rarely seen, due to its cryptic plumage and skulking habits. - Its scientific name "Cisticola" is derived from Greek "kistos" (rock-rose) and Latin "cola" (dweller), though this species is more ...