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Overview
Nightingale reed warbler

Nightingale reed warbler

Wikipedia

The nightingale reed warbler, or Guam reed-warbler, is an extinct songbird that was endemic to Guam.

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Distribution

Region

Mariana Islands

Typical Environment

Historically restricted to lowland wetlands, marshy edges, and dense riparian thickets on Guam. It favored stands of reeds, tall grasses, and secondary growth near freshwater. Birds foraged within tangled vegetation and along stream margins, occasionally venturing into adjacent shrublands. After the mid-20th century, records dwindled rapidly as suitable habitat fragmented and predators proliferated.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 300 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size16–19 cm
Wing Span22–25 cm
Male Weight0.022 kg
Female Weight0.02 kg
Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the Guam reed-warbler, this species was confined to Guam and is now extinct. It inhabited dense reedbeds and thickets near freshwater, where it delivered a rich, melodious song that inspired its common name. Likely drivers of its extinction include habitat loss and predation from introduced species, especially the brown tree snake.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, usually low over vegetation

Social Behavior

Typically maintained territories in dense cover and was seldom seen in large groups. It nested low in reeds or shrubs, building a cup-shaped nest supported by stems. Pairs were likely monogamous during the breeding season, with both adults feeding the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A rich, varied warble with liquid notes, whistles, and trills, delivered from concealed perches or low song posts. The song was persistent during the breeding season and carried well over wetlands.

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