Clamorous Reed Warbler

Overview

The clamorous reed warbler (Acrocephalus stentoreus) is an Old World warbler belonging to the genus Acrocephalus. Its breeding range extends from Egypt eastwards through Pakistan, Afghanistan, and northern India to South China and Southeast Asia.

Identification

• Large, song thrush-sized warbler measuring 18–20 cm with a strong, pointed bill and a flattened forehead.
• Adults display an unstreaked brown back and whitish underparts, with some races showing darker plumage.
• Possesses a loud, far-carrying song characterised by a slow, chattering 'kereet-kereet-kereet' pattern accompanied by whistles and mimicry.

Habitat

This species inhabits large reed beds, often containing some bushes. Most populations are sedentary, though breeding birds in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and northern India migrate to winter in peninsular India and Sri Lanka.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, the bird also takes other small prey items.

Did you know?

The bird constructs a basket nest within the reeds in which it lays between three and six eggs.