#BirdyTuesday Spotlight: The Cloud-scraping songster!

The Dambo Cisticola (Cisticola dambo), also known as the Cloud-scraping Cisticola, is a small and fascinating bird found in the grasslands of our neighborhood spanning Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This species stands out for its unique display flight, soaring high into the sky while singing—a behavior that inspired its nickname.

Measuring about 11 cm in length, the Dambo Cisticola has a pale, buffy underside with a dark, heavily streaked back and crown. Its longer tail helps distinguish it from similar cisticolas like the Wing-snapping and Pale-crowned Cisticolas. Preferring wet or flooded lowland grasslands, particularly seepage zones, this bird plays a vital role in its ecosystem. It primarily feeds on insects and small invertebrates, helping to regulate their populations, while also serving as prey for larger predators.

Its nasal song, often delivered from a termite mound or grass stem, is key to its identification. While currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, the species faces potential threats from habitat loss due to agriculture and development.

Spotting a Dambo Cisticola can be tricky, but its high-flying display and distinctive calls make it a rewarding find for bird enthusiasts. You may get lucky and spot one when you visit Upemba.