The Emei leaf warbler is a species of leaf warbler. It was formerly included in the "Old World warbler" assemblage.
Region
South-central China
Typical Environment
Primarily found in montane broadleaf and mixed forests of Sichuan and nearby ranges, favoring dense undergrowth, bamboo, and rhododendron thickets. It uses forest edges, ravines, and secondary growth where leaf surfaces and twigs provide gleaning sites. The species is locally common in suitable habitat and benefits from protected mountain reserves. Seasonal movements may occur along elevation gradients, tracking insect availability.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Emei leaf warbler is a small Phylloscopus warbler named after Mount Emei in Sichuan, China. It was formerly grouped within the broad “Old World warbler” assemblage but is now recognized based on distinctive vocalizations and subtle plumage traits. It forages actively in dense montane foliage and often joins mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season.
Temperament
active and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it regularly joins mixed-species flocks, moving through mid-storey and canopy in small parties. During breeding it is territorial and likely monogamous, with nests placed low in dense vegetation. Pairs defend small territories with frequent song and calls.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A high-pitched, thin but penetrating series of trills and whistles delivered in short phrases. Calls include sharp tsip notes used for contact within flocks and alarm.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler, yellow-washed underparts and a clean whitish belly; fine, neat feathering suited to foliage gleaning. Typically shows a strong pale supercilium and contrasting dark eye-line with one to two pale wingbars depending on wear. Overall appearance is small, slim, and crisp-edged in pattern.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small arthropods, including caterpillars, aphids, beetles, and spiders. It gleans prey from the surfaces of leaves and twigs and occasionally hover-gleans to pick insects from foliage. Short sallies are used to snatch small flying insects in light gaps.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense montane forest understory to mid-canopy, especially among bamboo, shrubs, and along forest edges. Frequently works along sunlit edges and gaps where insect activity is higher.
