Habitat:
Grasslands, wetlands, marshes

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Zitting Cisticola is a small passerine bird from the Cisticolidae family, often found in wetlands and grasslands. It is recognizable by its brown streaked plumage, short tail, and distinctive song. Measuring about 10 to 12 cm in length, it weighs between 8 and 10 grams. Highly active, it is often seen fluttering above vegetation. Its diet mainly consists of insects and spiders. The Zitting Cisticola is widely distributed across southern Europe, Africa, and South Asia. It builds a cup-shaped nest in tall grasses, where it usually lays 3 to 5 eggs.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Zitting Cisticola, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for open areas near marshes or grasslands where it is active. Be patient and wait for it to perch on a stalk or blade of grass. Morning or late afternoon light is ideal for achieving natural colors and good contrast.