The Moheli brush warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It is found only in Comoros. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Comoros Archipelago
Typical Environment
This species occupies subtropical to tropical moist montane forest on Mohéli, favoring dense understory, forest edges, and secondary growth with thick shrubs. It also uses riparian thickets and overgrown clearings where tangles provide cover. The bird typically forages within a few meters of the ground, moving through vine tangles and bamboo-like stands. Patchy forest fragmentation limits its range and promotes a scattered distribution. Occasional use of regenerating forest suggests some tolerance of disturbance, but intact understory remains important.
Altitude Range
200–790 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Moheli brush warbler is a skulking Old World warbler that keeps to dense undergrowth, making it easy to overlook. It is confined to the island of Mohéli in the Comoros and relies on moist forest and thick thickets. Habitat loss and degradation pose the main threats. Its song is often heard more than the bird is seen.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, keeping low in dense cover. Breeding pairs defend small territories and build a cup-shaped nest concealed in shrubs or low saplings. Young are fed by both parents and remain close to cover after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied, scratchy to melodious warble delivered from deep cover, with short phrases and occasional mimic-like notes. Call notes are dry ticks and soft churrs, often given while foraging.
