Grey emutail

The grey emutail, also known as the Madagascan grassbird or feather-tailed warbler, is an emutail in the family Locustellidae. It is found only in Madagascar. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist shrubland and shrub-dominated wetland.

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Distribution

Region

Madagascar

Typical Environment

Occurs across Madagascar’s central and eastern highlands and locally in eastern lowlands where dense marsh vegetation persists. Prefers shrub-dominated wetlands, sedge and reedbeds, and moist rank grass along streams and valley bottoms. Frequently uses edges of swamps and wet meadows with scattered shrubs and Pandanus. It remains close to cover and rarely ventures into open ground.

Altitude Range

0–1800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size16–18 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.019 kg

Female Weight0.017 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The grey emutail is a secretive, long-tailed grassbird that creeps mouse-like through dense marsh and rank grass. Its insect-like trilling song often gives away its presence before the bird is seen. It relies on intact wet meadows and marshy shrublands, making it sensitive to wetland drainage and burning.

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats; weak, low flights over vegetation

Social Behavior

Usually found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests are placed low in dense grasses or sedges, with both parents involved in care. Outside the breeding season it may form loose associations in suitable marshy patches.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a high-pitched, insect-like trill or series of rapid notes delivered from within cover or a low perch. Calls include thin tseep notes and brief rattles, often repeated.

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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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