Moltoni's warbler is a small bird species belonging to the family Sylviidae, often referred to as the typical warblers. This species is found in the islands of the western Mediterranean Sea and northern Italy.
Region
Western Mediterranean and Sahel
Typical Environment
Breeds on the western Mediterranean islands (Sardinia, Corsica, Balearic Islands) and locally in coastal and subalpine scrub of northern Italy. Prefers maquis, garrigue, and open shrublands with scattered trees, often near rocky slopes and coastal hills. During migration it passes through the central and western Mediterranean basin. In winter it occupies dry savanna and acacia scrub in the Sahel of West and Central Africa, using dense low cover for foraging and shelter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Moltoni's warbler breeds mainly on islands of the western Mediterranean and parts of northern Italy, wintering in the Sahel of sub‑Saharan Africa. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the Subalpine Warbler but is now recognized as a distinct species based on vocal and genetic differences. Its soft, trilled song and harsh buzzing call help separate it from closely related warblers. It favors low, aromatic scrub (maquis and garrigue) where it forages discreetly.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, where males defend small territories. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs; clutches usually contain 3–5 eggs. Pairs are seasonally monogamous, and both adults contribute to feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft, musical trill interspersed with short warbling phrases, delivered from within shrubs or a low perch. The call is a distinctive dry, buzzing 'drrr' that separates it from similar currucas.
Plumage
Males show a grey head and mantle with warm salmon-pink underparts and a paler throat; females and immatures are browner above with buffy underparts. Both sexes display white outer tail feathers and a fine, neat feather texture typical of currucas. The overall effect is soft-toned with subtle contrasts.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders gleaned from foliage and stems. In late summer and autumn it supplements its diet with berries and small fruits. It occasionally makes short sallies to catch flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Feeds within dense Mediterranean scrub, maquis, and garrigue, often close to the ground or mid-shrub level. In winter, forages in acacia and thorn scrub of the Sahel, focusing on sheltered, brushy patches.
