The lanceolated warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the genus Locustella. It breeds from northeast European Russia across the Palearctic to northern Hokkaidō, Japan. It is migratory, wintering in Southeast Asia. The genus name Locustella is from Latin and is a diminutive of locusta, "grasshopper". This refers to the song of the common grasshopper warbler and some others in this genus. The specific lanceolata is Latin for "spear-shaped" and refers to the streaks on the breast.
Region
Northern Palearctic
Typical Environment
Breeds from northeast European Russia across Siberia to northern Hokkaidō, Japan, favoring damp meadows, sedge bogs, and shrubby tundra edges. During migration it frequents coastal scrub, reedbeds, and dense grassy cover. In winter it occurs in Southeast Asia in rank grass, rice paddies, marsh margins, and scrubby fields. The species is highly skulking, keeping close to the ground and moving mouse-like through vegetation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Continental
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive grass-warbler, the lanceolated warbler is best detected by its insect-like, reeling song delivered from dense ground vegetation. It breeds across the northern Palearctic and migrates to Southeast Asia for the winter. In Europe it is a prized rarity on autumn migration, especially on remote North Sea islands. The name “lanceolated” refers to the fine spear-shaped streaks on its underparts.
Locustella lanceolata - MHNT
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, nesting low on or near the ground in dense grass or sedge. The nest is a cup concealed in thick cover. Males sing persistently from hidden perches to advertise territories. Outside breeding, birds remain inconspicuous and may associate loosely in suitable winter habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A high-pitched, continuous reeling or buzzing trilled song reminiscent of a grasshopper, often delivered from within cover. Calls include thin ticks and soft churring notes. Song may be given at dusk and at night during migration.
