Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)

The Grasshopper Warblers, Locustella naevia, breeds across much of temperate Europe and Asia. This bird is migratory, wintering from northwest Africa to India. It is usually found in short dense vegetation, often close to water.

This species is very difficult to spot except when singing. It usually creeps through grass and low foliage.

Description

Grasshopper Warblers is a medium-sized warbler, 12.5-13.5 cm long.

The adult has a streaked brown back, whitish grey underparts, unstreaked except on the undertail. The sexes are identical, as with most warblers, but young birds are yellower below.

Singing / Vocalization

Its song is a monotonous mechanical insect-like reeling, frequently heard at dusk.

Diet / Feeding

It primarily eats insects.

Breeding / Nesting

The average clutch consists of 4-7 eggs laid in a nest on the ground or a tussock (bunch grass).

 
 
 
 
 
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Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

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