Zitting Cisticola

Cisticola juncidis

Family: Cisticolas and Allies · Status: Common resident · Size: 10.5–12 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Occurs across southern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.

Identification

Much smaller than Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler and Lanceolated Warbler. Adult has buffish-brown upperparts with blackish streaks, rufous rump and whitish underparts with rufous-buff wash on flanks.

Habitat

Grasslands, marshes and open habitats.

Behaviour

Usually skulks in long grass. During the breeding season, males hover and circle in the air.