The Cook reed warbler or Cook Islands reed warbler, is a species of Old World warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It is native to the southeastern Cook Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests, swamps, and rural gardens. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
South Pacific (Cook Islands)
Typical Environment
The species occupies scrub, reedbeds, and secondary growth on small uplifted coral islands, often near wetlands and seasonal swamps. It also uses coconut plantations, village gardens, and forest edges where dense understory is present. Breeding territories are typically established in areas with abundant vertical stems and tangles for nesting. It tolerates some disturbance but declines where cover is cleared or heavily grazed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This reed warbler is restricted to the southeastern Cook Islands, notably the low islands of Mangaia and Mitiaro. It favors dense thickets, wetlands, and gardens where cover is abundant. Habitat loss and introduced predators pose the main threats. Local habitat management and invasive-species control are important for its survival.
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between cover
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, defending breeding territories in dense vegetation. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs, reeds, or thickets. Both parents incubate and feed the young, and pairs may raise multiple broods when conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The song is a loud, scratchy warble with repeated phrases, often delivered from concealed perches within thickets. Calls include harsh chacks and scolds when alarmed. Males sing most persistently at dawn and early morning.
