The African desert warbler is a species of warbler in the family Sylviidae.
Region
Sahara and northern Sahel
Typical Environment
Found across the Sahara from western regions (e.g., Western Sahara and Mauritania) through Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and into Niger and Chad, with local movements toward Sahel margins. It inhabits sandy and stony deserts with scattered bushes such as tamarisk, halfa grass, and acacia scrub. Birds favor dry wadis, dune slopes with sparse shrub cover, and hammada plains where low vegetation offers foraging and nesting sites. It is generally absent from densely vegetated oases and high mountains. Local, rainfall-driven movements occur after good rains when insects surge.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The African desert warbler is a small, sandy-toned warbler adapted to life in the Sahara, often keeping close to low shrubs and dunes. It frequently flicks and fans its tail, flashing white outer tail feathers as it moves through sparse cover. Its pale yellow iris is a helpful field mark, and its song is a rapid, scratchy twitter delivered from low perches.
Clutch of 2 to 5 Curruca deserti eggs is typical. - MHNT
Temperament
skulking yet inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and fluttery over shrubs
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests low in dense shrubs, constructing a small cup of grasses and fibers. Clutches often comprise 3–4 eggs, and breeding can be timed to follow rainfall events that boost insect availability. Family groups may remain together for a time post-fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A fast, scratchy warble with trills and twittering notes, delivered from low perches or while moving through shrubs. Calls include dry, churring notes and thin ‘tsee’ contact calls.
