The northern Marquesan reed warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It was formerly considered conspecific with the southern Marquesan reed warbler, and together known as the Marquesan reed warbler. It is found on the northern Marquesas Islands.
Region
South Pacific (French Polynesia — Northern Marquesas)
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly on larger northern Marquesan islands, especially Nuku Hiva and Ua Huka, in valleys, coastal scrub, and second-growth forests. It uses dense tangles of Hibiscus, Pandanus, and other shrubs along streams and in moist gullies. Former populations on some nearby islands are believed to be extinct or greatly reduced due to introduced predators and habitat change. It tolerates some disturbance and secondary growth, provided dense cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This island reed-warbler is confined to the northern Marquesas of French Polynesia and was formerly lumped with the southern Marquesan reed-warbler. It favors dense thickets and riparian vegetation rather than true reedbeds, often skulking low but singing conspicuously. Predation by invasive rats and habitat degradation have caused local extirpations, leaving fragmented populations. It is protected, and access to key sites is often restricted to minimize disturbance.
Temperament
secretive but inquisitive near cover
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, holding and defending dense territories during the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or vines; both parents provision the young. Pairs are thought to be seasonally monogamous with strong site fidelity.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, scratchy warble of varied phrases delivered from concealed perches, often including mimicry of other island birds. Harsh scolds and churrs are given when alarmed near the nest.
Plumage
Plain warm-brown to olive-brown above with paler buff underparts and a slightly mottled throat; plumage looks smooth and slightly glossy in good light. A faint but noticeable pale supercilium contrasts with the dusky lores. Wings and tail are darker brown with minimal patterning.
Diet
Primarily takes insects such as beetles, caterpillars, flies, and spiders gleaned from foliage and bark. It also hawks small flying insects on short sallies from low perches. Occasional small berries or nectar may be taken, especially in dry periods when invertebrates are less available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense thickets, riparian tangles, and secondary growth along stream margins and in valley bottoms. Often forages from near ground level up to the mid-canopy within shrubs and small trees. Edge habitats with layered vegetation are especially favored.
