Fan-tailed Warbler
Cisticola juncidis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zitting_cisticola
Overview
The zitting cisticola, formerly also fan-tailed warbler or streaked fantail warbler, is a widely distributed Old World warbler in the family Cisticolidae, whose breeding range includes western and southern Europe, Africa outside the deserts and rainforest, and southern Asia down to northern Australia. A small bird found mainly in grasslands, it is best identified by its rufous rump; in addition it lacks any gold on the collar and the brownish tail is tipped with white. During the breeding season males have a zigzagging flight display accompanied by regular "zit" calls that give it its English name.
They build their pouch nest suspended within a clump of grass.
The Zitting Cisticola faces severe population declines due to widespread habitat destruction and degradation of wetland ecosystems. Agricultural intensification, urban development, and drainage of marshlands have significantly reduced suitable breeding and foraging areas across its range, while climate change threatens to alter precipitation patterns critical for maintaining its preferred grassland and wetland habitats.
Habitat
Inhabits dense grasslands, reed beds, marshes, and wet meadows, typically in areas with tall grasses and sedges near water sources. Also found in agricultural areas with suitable vegetation structure, including rice paddies, irrigation channels, and overgrown field margins.
Other threatened species in Cisticolidae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Fan-tailed Warbler classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Fan-tailed Warbler live?
What are the main threats to Fan-tailed Warbler?
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