SANParks.org Forums

Large view

Red-faced Cisticola?
Shingwedzi river, Oct, highlight in front of the eye is not on other pics, no tail cocking or singing, just sat there for a portfolio

I think you are spot on with your ID call, Bahamut. Habitat, bill shape and size, and the only plain-backed cisticola with the crown the same colour as its back.

Bahamut, thats your Red-Faced Cisticola!

The Red-faced Cisticola C. erythrops is more often heard than seen. Sometimes the male sings from exposed perch above undergrowth, but most frequently it skulks in dense undergrowth. Its very loud rising song is distinctive and once you have located the source of song, waiting patiently and the bird will eventually show.

It is a locally common to fairly common resident found primarily in the northern lowveld of South Africa in rank vegetation associated with marshes, along streams and rivers and bordering reed beds.


Large view of bird seen along the river walk in Skukuza

It usually is solitary, but sometimes found in pairs and in family groups after breeding. It feeds on small insects.

Nice shot JvR. They aren't the easiest birds to photograph. This is my best out-of-focus effort to date.


Clicking on thumbnail will open larger image