The evergreen forest warbler or Cameroon scrub-warbler is a grass warbler species in the family Locustellidae. It was formerly included in the "Old World warbler" assemblage.
Region
Gulf of Guinea Highlands (West-Central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occupies dense understory of evergreen montane and submontane forests, especially along the Cameroon Line and adjacent highlands. It uses thickets, forest edges, bamboo and bracken tangles, and secondary growth near mature forest. Birds often keep to ravines, streamside vegetation, and steep slopes where cover is continuous. It tolerates some habitat disturbance if dense ground cover remains, but is most common in well-structured forest.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The evergreen forest warbler, also called the Cameroon scrub-warbler, is a shy understory specialist that is far more often heard than seen. It delivers a persistent, insect‑like trill from dense cover in evergreen montane forests. Formerly grouped within the broad “Old World warbler” assemblage, it is now placed in the family Locustellidae. Its preference for thick undergrowth makes it a reliable indicator of intact forest understory.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, stays low in cover
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, keeping close to dense vegetation. Breeding pairs defend small territories and place well-concealed nests low in thick cover or near the ground. Both adults are attentive to nestlings, moving furtively while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a persistent, high, insect-like trill or series of dry, rapid notes delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft ticks and churrs that carry through dense understory, especially at dawn and dusk.
