The Marsh Warbler (Acrocephalus palustris) is an Old World warbler in the genus Acrocephalus.
Distribution / Range
It breeds in temperate Europe and western Asia. It is migratory, wintering in south east Africa.
It does not breed in the Iberian peninsula, and in England it is scarce and declining, with the former main center of population in Worcestershire now extinct.
This small passerine bird is a species found in fairly tall rank vegetation in marshes or by rivers.
Breeding / Nesting
3-6 eggs are laid in a nest in reeds or low vegetation.
Distribution / Range
This is a medium-sized warbler.
The adult has a plain brown back and pale underparts.
The sexes are identical, as with most warblers, but young birds are yellower below.
Similar Species ID: It can be confused with the Reed Warbler, but is greyer on the back, the forehead is less flattened and the bill is less strong and pointed. The habitat is different from the reed beds favoured by the Reed Warbler.
Diet / Feeding
Like most warblers, the Marsh Warbler is insectivorous, but will take other small food items including berries.
Song / Vocalization
In the breeding season, the best identification feature is the song, which is high and fast, and consists almost entirely of mimicry of other birds, punctuated with typically acrocephaline sqeaks and whistles. Dozens of different European and African bird calls have been identified in the song of this warbler.
