The common reed warbler is an Old World warbler in the genus Acrocephalus. It breeds across Europe into the temperate western Palaearctic where it is migratory, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also a resident species over large parts of Africa.
Region
Western Palearctic and sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Breeds widely across temperate Europe and parts of western Asia wherever extensive reedbeds occur. In the non-breeding season it occupies a broad range across sub-Saharan Africa, using wetlands, rank grass, and scrubby edges. It is strongly associated with Phragmites-dominated marshes, lakesides, canals, and floodplains. During migration it also uses coastal reedbeds and riverine vegetation and may pass through agricultural wetlands such as rice paddies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The common reed warbler breeds across Europe and western Asia and migrates to sub-Saharan Africa for the non-breeding season. It is closely tied to reedbeds, weaving a deep cup nest suspended between vertical reed stems. Its rhythmic, chattering song is a classic sound of summer wetlands. Although plain in appearance, it can be distinguished from similar species by its steady, repetitive song and preference for dense Phragmites reeds.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low over reeds
Social Behavior
Typically breeds in dense reedbeds, where it suspends a cup nest between several reed stems. Pairs are socially monogamous but may show extra-pair matings; both parents feed the young. Territorial during the breeding season and more loosely social during migration and on wintering grounds.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A steady, rhythmic warble of chattering phrases with repeated motifs, delivered from concealed perches or reed tops. Less imitative and not as varied as the marsh warbler, with a measured, repetitive quality. Calls include sharp 'tac' notes from cover.
Plumage
Plain warm-brown upperparts with slightly paler rump and buffy underparts; throat whitish and slightly contrasting. Fine, pointed bill and relatively long, rounded tail. Supercilium weak and indistinct; overall smooth, unpatterned look.
Diet
Primarily takes small insects such as flies, beetles, moths, caterpillars, aphids, and spiders gleaned from reed stems and foliage. In late summer and on wintering grounds it may add small berries and other soft fruits. Occasionally hawks short distances for flying insects above the reeds.
Preferred Environment
Feeds within dense reedbeds and adjacent emergent vegetation along lakes, rivers, ditches, and marshes. In Africa it forages in wetter edges of savanna, rank grass, and shrub thickets near water.
