Grauer's swamp warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Locustellidae. It is native to the Albertine Rift montane forests. Its natural habitats are freshwater lakes and freshwater marshes. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Albertine Rift (East-Central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in high-altitude freshwater marshes and edges of montane lakes across the Albertine Rift, including eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, southwest Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. Prefers dense stands of sedges, papyrus, and grasses, often with scattered shrubs. It is closely tied to intact wetland vegetation and avoids heavily disturbed or drained sites. Local populations are isolated by the fragmented nature of suitable marshes. Conservation areas like Bwindi and Nyungwe hold key remnant populations.
Altitude Range
1800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Grauer's swamp warbler is a secretive Old World warbler confined to high-elevation swamps of the Albertine Rift. It keeps low in dense sedges and papyrus, where it skulks and seldom flies far. Its habitat is rapidly shrinking due to drainage, agriculture, and wetland degradation, making conservation of montane marshes critical. The species is named after the Austrian zoologist Rudolf Grauer, who collected extensively in the region.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories within marshes. Nests low in dense sedges or grasses, with a well-concealed cup supported by stems. Breeding coincides with wetter periods when vegetation is lush. Family groups may remain together briefly after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rapid series of buzzing trills and churring phrases delivered from deep cover or a low perch. Calls include sharp ticks and soft chatters used to maintain contact in dense vegetation. Vocalizations carry surprisingly well through marsh habitat at dawn and dusk.
