The Namaqua warbler, also known as the Namaqua prinia or white-breasted prinia, is a small passerine bird, a cisticolid warbler and the sole member of the genus Phragmacia. It was formerly placed in the genus Prinia, but was found to be sufficiently distinct to warrant a genus of its own.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in the arid and semi-arid zones of western South Africa and southern Namibia. Favors dense, low shrubs in the Karoo and Namaqualand, as well as reedbeds and rank vegetation along drainage lines and farm dams. Often keeps close to the ground or mid-story, moving mouse-like through cover with its tail cocked. It avoids open grasslands and dense forests, relying on thorny or reed-dominated thickets for shelter and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the white-breasted prinia, the Namaqua warbler is the sole member of the genus Phragmacia after being split from Prinia. It is a skulking, long-tailed cisticolid that keeps to dense, thorny shrubs and reedbeds. Pairs are territorial year-round and weave a neat, domed nest low in cover.
Namaqua warbler in typical habitat; dense cover in a Karoo watercourse
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bouncing flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories throughout the year. The nest is a compact, domed or ball-like structure placed low in dense shrubs or reeds. Pairs engage in duet-like calling and cooperative defense of their nesting area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of fast, high-pitched trills and tinkling notes delivered from within cover or a low perch. Calls include dry chats and buzzy scolds when alarmed.
