The bristled grassbird is a small passerine bird in the genus Schoenicola. Also known as the bristled grass warbler, this species is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, where it is patchily distributed in Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan. These insectivorous birds skulk in dense and tall grasslands, often in marshy areas, habitats that are threatened by human activities. Formerly considered to be sedentary, the species may be migratory, moving south and east in the Indian peninsula during winter and returning to their breeding grounds in the northern plains south of the Himalayas.
Region
Indian Subcontinent
Typical Environment
Patchily distributed across the northern plains south of the Himalayas, including the Terai of Nepal and northern India, east into Bangladesh, and west to the Indus floodplains of Pakistan. It occupies extensive tracts of tall, dense riverine and marshy grasslands, often dominated by Saccharum and Phragmites. During the non-breeding season it can shift south and east within the Indian peninsula, using similar tall-grass wetlands and fallow fields. Occurrence is localized, with strong ties to undisturbed floodplain grassland mosaics near large rivers and wetlands.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The bristled grassbird has prominent rictal bristles that give it its name and help it snag insect prey in dense grasses. Males perform conspicuous song-flights over tall grass during the breeding season despite the species’ generally skulking habits. It is highly dependent on extensive, tall riverine grasslands that are rapidly vanishing due to drainage, burning, and conversion. Some authorities have treated it as Chaetornis striata, reflecting past taxonomic placement.
Temperament
skulking but vocal in breeding season
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with display flights and parachuting glides over grass
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in pairs, becoming territorial during the breeding season. Nests are built low in tall grasses, typically well-concealed above damp ground. Clutch sizes are small, and both parents participate in care. Outside breeding, individuals may disperse locally and can occur in loose assemblages in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a loud, buzzy warble with trills and churring phrases delivered from exposed perches or during fluttering song-flights. Calls include sharp ticks and chatters given from cover. The display song carries well over tall grasslands, aiding territory advertisement.
