Cisticola problems, Zambia (1 Viewer)

[dwatsonbirder]

The last species I struggled with where these two different cisticola species. The first was seen just outside of the LZNP, in my notes I had tentatively identified this as rattling given the harsh call:

 

[dwatsonbirder]

This second bird was taken in the LZNP GMA, and did not call. It's behaviour was also strikingly terrestrial, reminding me of a Desert warbler:

 

[dwatsonbirder]

No takers?

 

[Larry Sweetland]

I can't rule out Rattling for either of them. What are the options at the location?

 

[dwatsonbirder]

Thanks for the reply Larry, they looked and behaved differently, but could always be the effect of light and habitat.
The following species are present (widespread) at one or both sites, or within NE Zambia: Zitting, Pale crowned, Stout, Croaking, Rattling, Tinkling, Levaillant's, Red faced, Trilling, Lazy, Tabora, Neddicky, Short winged.
I think the following can be excluded: Zitting, Croaking, Red faced, Lazy and Neddicky.

 

[Larry Sweetland]

Re behaviour, I've certainly seen Rattling on the ground as well as up in trees, so I wouldn't go too much on that. I'm not saying they're definitely Rattling though!

 

[Tib78]

They both look good for Rattling. Generally the default « large streaky cisticola » away from wetlands in Zambia. Croaking is quite common too but these clearly aren’t Croaking.

 

[dwatsonbirder]

Thanks Tib, appreciate your input also. As an aside, Frank Willems (Birding Zambia) also concluded that both were Rattling.

 

[Tib78]

Thanks Tib, appreciate your input also. As an aside, Frank Willems (Birding Zambia) also concluded that both were Rattling.

Well Frank is THE man when it comes to Zambian birds so I am glad to hear that 😁.