Gansu leaf warbler

The Gansu leaf warbler is a small passerine bird known only from China. It belongs to the leaf warbler genus Phylloscopus within the family Phylloscopidae. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of Pallas's warbler but is now regarded as a separate species based on differences in voice and cytochrome-b gene sequences.

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Distribution

Region

Northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau

Typical Environment

This species occurs in montane regions of central-northwest China, especially Gansu and adjacent provinces such as Qinghai and northern Sichuan. It breeds in coniferous and mixed forests with dense understory, including rhododendron and willow thickets. Birds also use forest edges, scrubby slopes, and streamside vegetation where insect prey is abundant. In the non-breeding season it moves to lower elevations locally and may shift southward within China. The distribution is patchy, following suitable highland habitats.

Altitude Range

1800–3800 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size9–10 cm

Wing Span15–18 cm

Male Weight0.0048 kg

Female Weight0.0046 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Once treated as a subspecies of Pallas's warbler, the Gansu leaf warbler is now recognized as a full species based on distinct vocalizations and cytochrome-b genetic differences. It is confined to China, where it favors high-elevation forests and shrubby slopes. Identification in the field often relies on its high, thin song phrases and subtle plumage differences.

Behaviour

Temperament

active and restless

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Breeds in solitary pairs with well-defined territories. Nests are placed low in dense shrubs or on the ground in concealed sites, where the female typically handles most incubation while both adults feed the young. Outside the breeding season, it often joins mixed-species flocks with other small insectivores.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Song consists of very high, thin, and sweet trills and whistles delivered in short phrases, distinct from Pallas’s warbler in rhythm and structure. Calls are sharp, high-pitched seeps used frequently as the bird forages in foliage.

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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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