asity

Asity refers to a genus of small passerine birds belonging to the family Cisticolidae. The genus currently contains five species, all of which are native to Madagascar. These birds are characterized by their relatively short tails and streaky plumage, which often provides camouflage within their scrubby, grassland, and bush habitats. Asity species are typically insectivorous, foraging for insects, larvae, and other small invertebrates. They are known for their energetic movements and often flitting through low vegetation.

The five recognized species of Asity are: the common asity ( *Neomixis tenella*), the brown asity (*Neomixis brunnea*), the grey-brown asity (*Neomixis cinereiceps*), the yellow-bellied asity (*Neomixis flaviventris*), and the plain-breasted asity (*Neomixis semitorquata*). While they share a common genus, there are subtle differences in their appearance and vocalizations that ornithologists use for identification. Their breeding behavior typically involves building small, cup-shaped nests in dense vegetation. Asities are an important component of the Madagascan avifauna and are a subject of interest for birdwatchers and researchers studying the unique biodiversity of the island.