The Lemon-rumped Warbler, also known as the Pale-rumped
Region
Himalayas and southwestern China
Typical Environment
Breeds in montane coniferous and mixed broadleaf–conifer forests with rhododendron understorey. Frequently uses forest edges, clearings, and scrubby slopes. In the non-breeding season it descends to foothill forests, wooded valleys, and well-vegetated secondary growth, sometimes visiting parks and gardens near forest. It ranges from northern Pakistan and India through Nepal and Bhutan into Tibet, Sichuan, and Yunnan, with wintering movements into the Himalayan foothills and northern Southeast Asia.
Altitude Range
1200–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Lemon-rumped Warbler, also known as the Pale-rumped Leaf Warbler, is a tiny, hyperactive leaf warbler of the Himalayas and adjacent China. It is best told by its distinct lemon-yellow rump and twin pale wingbars, features that help separate it from similar greenish warblers. It often joins mixed-species flocks in winter and forages restlessly among outer foliage. Its high, thin calls can be easier to detect than the bird itself.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often joins mixed-species foraging flocks outside the breeding season, moving restlessly through outer foliage. Breeding pairs are territorial, with a small cup nest placed low in dense vegetation or on the ground among tussocks. Clutch care is primarily by the female, with the male assisting in territory defense.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of accelerating seee-tsee notes and tinkling trills. Calls are very high, sharp tsip or seee that carry well through conifers and can be easier to locate than the bird.
