Green-backed Camaroptera

The green-backed camaroptera (Camaroptera brachyura), also known as the bleating camaroptera, is a diminutive bird, a member of the Cisticolidae family. It is recognized by its green upperparts, olive wings, and whitish-grey underparts. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, while juveniles display a paler yellow on the breast. This species measures approximately 11.5 cm in length.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the green-backed camaroptera, look for its short tail, a feature hinted at by its specific epithet 'brachyura', derived from Ancient Greek meaning "short-tailed". The bird's green back and olive wings contrast with its lighter underparts, aiding in its identification amidst dense vegetation.

Habitat

This elusive passerine prefers to remain low in dense cover, making it a challenge to spot. It is a bird that thrives in the undergrowth, often concealed by foliage.

Distribution

The green-backed camaroptera is a resident breeder throughout Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. Its presence spans a range of subspecies across various regions, from Kenya and Tanzania to South Africa.

Behaviour

The green-backed camaroptera is known for its skulking nature. It constructs its nest by ingeniously binding large leaves together within a bush, creating a concealed grass nest for its clutch, typically comprising two or three eggs.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the green-backed camaroptera are distinctive, and its song has been recorded in the Cape Province of South Africa. Its calls contribute to the rich tapestry of sounds that one may encounter in its natural habitat.

Breeding

As a resident breeder, the green-backed camaroptera binds leaves to craft a hidden nest low in a bush, where it lays a normal clutch of two or three eggs.

Similar Species

Recent studies have suggested that the green-backed camaroptera may be conspecific with the grey-backed camaroptera, indicating that they could be the same species. Observers should take note of the subtle differences in plumage and locality when differentiating between the two.

Diet and Feeding

Insectivorous by nature, the green-backed camaroptera forages for insects within its dense habitat, contributing to its role in the ecosystem as a pest controller.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the green-backed camaroptera as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.