Common Reed Warbler - BirdForum Opus

Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Photo by Ragna
Photographed: Titchwell Marsh, Norfolk

Photo by Qingcol
Amble, Cornwall, June 2008

Identification

12.5cm
Brown with a rusty tinge. Paler underparts with a whitish throat. Thin brownish bill. Legs dark brown.
Juvenile is very similar to the adult but rather brighter with tawny-orange tints to upperparts. Legs flesh-coloured.

Similar Species

Marsh Warbler, Blyth's Reed Warbler

Distribution

Europe,western Asia, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa.

Taxonomy

Monotypic.

Habitat

Reedbeds and some bushes.

Behaviour

Monogamous.

The diet includes mainly insects, though some berries are taken.

It builds a basket like nest in reeds; 3-5 eggs are laid; the young fledge after 10 or 11 days.

It is brood parasitised by the Common Cuckoo.

Vocalisation

<flashmp3>Acrocephalus scirpaceus (song).mp3</flashmp3>
Listen in an external program

References

1. Collins Pocket Guide to British Birds 1966
2. Collins Field Guide 5th Edition
3. Wikipedia

External Links

• Reed Warbler Identification Thread

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