Hartert's leaf warbler is a leaf warbler found only in China. Its natural habitats are temperate forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. It was previously considered a subspecies of Blyth's leaf warbler.
Region
Central and southern China
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and foothill forests, ranging from temperate broadleaf and mixed woodland to subtropical moist lowland and hill forests. Commonly uses forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets adjoining mature forest. During the breeding season it favors cooler, mid-elevation slopes with dense understory. In the non-breeding season it may descend to lower elevations and move into more varied woodland and shrubby habitats.
Altitude Range
200–2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Hartert's leaf warbler is a small, active Phylloscopus warbler confined to China, where it occupies temperate and subtropical forests. It was long treated as part of the Blyth’s leaf warbler complex but differs in voice and subtle plumage details. Like many leaf warblers, it forages restlessly in the canopy and midstory, often joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, defending small territories. Outside breeding, it frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks in the midstory and canopy. Nests are usually cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation or on sheltered banks; both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
High-pitched, delicate series of thin trills and whistles, delivered in short phrases. Calls are sharp, high seeps typical of leaf warblers, aiding identification by ear in dense foliage.
