Gray's grasshopper warbler, also known as Gray's warbler, is a species of bird in the family Locustellidae; it was formerly included in the "Old World warbler" assemblage.
Region
Northeast Asia to Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in the Russian Far East (including Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands), northeastern China, and northern Japan (notably Hokkaido). During the non-breeding season it migrates to Southeast Asia, wintering in areas such as southern China, Taiwan, the Philippines, and the Greater Sundas. It favors dense reedbeds, wet meadows, willow thickets, and scrubby forest edges near water on the breeding grounds. In winter it uses secondary growth, mangroves, and rank grass or bamboo thickets.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Gray's grasshopper warbler is a skulking Locustellidae warbler whose song is a long, insect-like mechanical reel that can continue for minutes. It was formerly placed in the genus Locustella and is named after the British zoologist George Robert Gray. The species breeds in dense, low vegetation and is more often heard than seen due to its secretive habits.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, maintaining well-concealed territories. The nest is placed low in dense vegetation or on the ground, and the species is presumed monogamous. Both adults participate in caring for the young, and birds keep to cover, rarely exposing themselves.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A sustained, cricket-like mechanical reel delivered from concealed perches, often at dawn and dusk. The song is loud, even-pitched, and can run for long bouts, making the bird easier to locate by ear than by sight.
