There must be tens of thousands of Golden-headed Cisticolas (Cisticola exilis) breeding in rice crops this season. I record these beautiful birds at almost every site I survey. I’ve seen nests and lots of unfledged young. They’re a tiny bird and make a range of distinctive, insect-like buzzing calls. If you’re not familiar with them, it’s worth taking the time to get a good look and to watch their antics.
I wonder where they all come from and where they all go after the rice season. They’re certainly good at quickly taking advantage of new habitats as they emerge. One of their close relatives in Japan holds the record for the youngest breeding bird: less than two months old. Now that’s not wasting any time.
