The marsh warbler is an Old World warbler currently classified in the family Acrocephalidae. It breeds in temperate Europe and the western Palearctic and winters mainly in southeast Africa. It is notable for incorporating striking imitations of a wide variety of other birds into its song.
Region
Western Palearctic and Southeast Africa
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of temperate Europe east to western Russia, in lowlands and river valleys with lush, tall herbs and scattered shrubs. Prefers rank, dense vegetation at marsh edges, wet meadows, ditches, and along streams, often where nettles, hops, and willowherb form thick stands. In winter it occupies tangled thickets, rank grasslands, fallows, and edges of cultivation in southeastern Africa. Nests are typically suspended between vertical stems a short distance above the ground or water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The marsh warbler is famed for its remarkable mimicry, weaving the songs of dozens of other species into long, fluid performances. It breeds in temperate Europe and parts of the western Palearctic, then migrates to southeastern Africa for the non-breeding season. It favors dense, tall herbaceous vegetation like nettles and willowherb, often near water. Populations have declined locally due to habitat changes and loss of overgrown wet meadows.
Drawing by Jos Zwarts
Marsh warbler with a cuckoo nestling.
Eggs, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Cuculus canorus canorus in a clutch of Acrocephalus palustris - MHNT
Temperament
secretive but vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Generally solitary and territorial in the breeding season, with males singing from concealed perches to attract mates. Builds a deep cup nest suspended between sturdy herb stems; clutch typically 4–5 eggs. Both parents feed the young; nests may occasionally be parasitized by cuckoos.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A rich, flowing medley of varied phrases with striking mimicry of many other bird species, often delivered in long bouts. Males sing day and night, especially at dawn and dusk, sometimes incorporating imitations learned on African wintering grounds.
