The highland rush warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Locustellidae. Although mainly present in the Albertine rift montane forests and the East African montane forests, it is sparsely distributed from Ghana to Ethiopia and Tanzania.
Region
East and Central African Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across montane belts, especially in the Albertine Rift and East African highlands. Prefers dense ground-level cover in montane grasslands, bracken, sedge beds, forest edge thickets, and bamboo understory. Often found near streams or damp seepage zones where vegetation is lush. Avoids open grasslands, keeping to tangled, waist-high growth. Local density can be high where continuous cover is available, but the species remains inconspicuous.
Altitude Range
1200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive skulk of dense montane vegetation, the highland rush warbler is far more often heard than seen. Its thin, insect-like trills and ticking notes are key to detecting it in bracken, sedges, and bamboo edges. It belongs to the Old World warbler family Locustellidae and has strongholds in the Albertine Rift and East African montane forests.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, keeping to dense cover and creeping mouse-like through vegetation. Pairs defend territories during the breeding season and nest low in thick grass or bracken. Clutch size is small, and both adults participate in care. Outside breeding, it remains inconspicuous and largely sedentary.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, insect-like trill interspersed with ticking or tinkling notes, delivered from concealed perches or low exposed stems at dawn and dusk. Song can continue for long bouts and is often the only clue to its presence.
