Dja River scrub warbler

The Dja River scrub warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Locustellidae. It is found in Cameroon, Central African Republic, and Gabon. Its natural habitat is swamps. It is threatened by habitat loss.

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Distribution

Region

Congo Basin, Central Africa

Typical Environment

It inhabits swampy lowland wetlands, including riverine marshes, flooded grasslands, and dense sedge and reed beds along slow-moving rivers. The species prefers thick tangles of emergent vegetation and shrubby edges where it can move under cover. It often stays close to the waterline, weaving through stems and leaf litter. It is patchily distributed where suitable swamp habitat persists amid forested landscapes.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size15–17 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.018 kg

Female Weight0.017 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This elusive warbler skulks deep in dense swamp vegetation along the Dja River basin and is far more often heard than seen. Its range is small and fragmented across swampy lowlands of Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Gabon. Ongoing drainage, river modification, and conversion of wetlands threaten its habitat, making careful wetland protection key to its survival.

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, brief dashes between cover

Social Behavior

Typically encountered as solitary birds or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when territories are defended in dense marsh. Nests are placed low in reeds or sedges, well hidden above water or damp ground. Parents cooperate in rearing the brood and remain secretive around the nest.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is an insect-like, repetitive series of trills and buzzes delivered from deep cover. Calls include dry ticks and sharp chips, often the first clue to its presence.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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