The Arctic warbler is a widespread leaf warbler in birch or mixed birch forest near water throughout its breeding range in Fennoscandia and the northern Palearctic. It has established a foothold in North America, breeding in Alaska. This warbler is strongly migratory; the entire population winters in southeast Asia. It therefore has one of the longest migrations of any Old World insectivorous bird.
Region
Northern Palearctic and Alaska (breeding); Southeast Asia (wintering)
Typical Environment
Breeds in boreal birch, willow, and mixed taiga forests, especially near damp thickets and watercourses. Prefers shrubby edges, young regrowth, and forest openings with dense understorey. In winter it uses lowland evergreen and secondary forests, mangroves, plantations, and urban parks. During migration it occurs in a wide variety of wooded habitats, including coastal scrub and gardens.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A long-distance migrant, the Arctic warbler breeds from Fennoscandia across northern Russia into Alaska and winters in Southeast Asia. It was once considered part of a species complex that included Kamchatka and Japanese leaf warblers, now split as separate species. It favors birch and willow thickets near water on the breeding grounds and often frequents lowland forests, mangroves, and parks in winter. Its song is a rapid, insect-like trill that carries well through the canopy.
Phylloscopus borealis - MHNT
Temperament
active yet somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile flits through foliage
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs on the breeding grounds, where males sing from canopy perches to defend territories. The nest is a domed structure on or near the ground hidden among low vegetation. Clutches are incubated mostly by the female, with both parents feeding the nestlings. Outside breeding, it often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A rapid, dry, insect-like trill delivered in bursts, often from mid to upper canopy. The call is a sharp, metallic 'tzik' or 'tack' used frequently while foraging.
