The paddyfield warbler is a species of marsh warbler. It was formerly included in the "Old World warbler" assemblage. The Manchurian reed warbler was included in A. agricola as a subspecies.
Region
Central and South Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds across reedbeds, marshes, and riverine wetlands of western and central Asia, especially in Kazakhstan, southern Russia, and adjacent regions. In the non-breeding season it moves south to the Indian subcontinent and parts of the Middle East. It favors dense stands of Phragmites and Typha but readily uses rice paddies, irrigation canals, and wet grasslands. During migration it occurs in a variety of low, damp habitats with tall herbaceous cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The paddyfield warbler is a small reedbed specialist that often forages in rice paddies, which gives the species its common name. Its song is a rapid, varied warble that can include mimicry of other birds. The Manchurian reed warbler was formerly treated as a subspecies of A. agricola but is now recognized as distinct. It is adaptable within wetlands, using reeds, tall grasses, and crop margins.
In Kerala, India
Acrocephalus agricola - MHNT
Temperament
secretive in dense cover yet active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, nesting low in reeds in a neat cup suspended between stems. Likely monogamous within a season, with clutches of 3–6 eggs. Outside the breeding season it may join loose mixed flocks in suitable wetland and agricultural habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A brisk, chattering warble with repeated phrases and occasional mimicry of other wetland birds. Notes are sharp and metallic at times, delivered from concealed perches or exposed reed tops at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with paler edges to the wing feathers and creamy-buff underparts; texture smooth and sleek for moving through reeds.
Diet
Primarily small insects and their larvae, including beetles, flies, and caterpillars, as well as spiders and other small invertebrates. It gleans prey from reed stems and leaves, probes into seed heads, and occasionally makes short sallies to catch flying insects. In agricultural areas it forages along rice plants and canal edges, taking advantage of high insect densities.
Preferred Environment
Feeds within dense stands of reeds, cattails, and tall grasses, often close to shallow water. In winter it frequents rice paddies, marshy field margins, and irrigation networks where cover and insects are abundant.
