Alström's Warbler

Overview

Alström's warbler (Phylloscopus soror), also known as the plain-tailed warbler, is an Old World warbler in the family Phylloscopidae. First described in 1999, it breeds exclusively in China and winters in parts of Southeast Asia.

Identification

• Measures 11–12 cm, with females typically smaller than males.
• Displays a greyish-black upper body fading on the forehead, mixed with green around the eyes, and a vibrant yellowish-green underside.
• Features a distinct yellow eye-ring, a relatively large bill, and a smaller tail compared to similar species.
• Emits a simple song of short, quick strophes often starting with a chip, simplified as 'che-witchy-chew-witchy-chew'.

Habitat

This species inhabits temperate forests, specifically evergreen broadleaf zones with lush undergrowth and recently cleared areas containing bushes and small trees. Its breeding range is scattered across central and eastern China, while wintering grounds include Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and southern Myanmar.

Diet

The warbler feeds on insects, which it catches during short flights while foraging in low, dense forest growth.

Did you know?

The bird's common name honours the Swedish ornithologist Per Alström.