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Dohrn's warbler

Dohrn's warbler

Wikipedia

Dohrn's warbler, also known as Principe flycatcher-babbler, Dohrn's flycatcher, Dohrn's thrush-babbler, is a species of passerine bird in the family Sylviidae that is endemic to the island of Príncipe which lies off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea.

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Distribution

Region

Gulf of Guinea islands

Typical Environment

Confined to the island of Príncipe, where it occupies lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, thickets, and shaded agroforestry such as cocoa plantations. It favors dense understory and vine tangles where it can move unobtrusively. The species tolerates secondary forest and regenerating habitats, which supports its local abundance. It is less frequent in very open habitats or heavily urbanized areas.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size16–18 cm
Wing Span20–24 cm
Male Weight0.025 kg
Female Weight0.023 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called Dohrn's thrush-babbler or Príncipe flycatcher-babbler, this species is the only member of its genus and occurs solely on Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea. It forages quietly in the forest understory and edges, often in pairs, and adapts well to secondary growth and shaded plantations. Its slightly decurved bill reflects its gleaning and probing feeding style. The species is locally common despite its tiny global range.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats through understory

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups; occasionally joins mixed-species flocks. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation. Both parents participate in care of the young. Territorial calling and duetting are reported during the breeding period.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of clear whistles and mellow notes interspersed with soft chattering. Pairs may duet, with phrases repeated from shaded cover and forest edges.

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