The Pagan reed warbler is an extinct species of passerine bird in the family Acrocephalidae, sometimes considered a subspecies of the nightingale reed warbler. It originally occurred on Pagan Island and "was extinct by the late 1970s". More precisely, in the 1970s, the 1980s, in 2000 and in 2010, the bird could not be found and is therefore presumed to be extinct.
Region
Micronesia (Mariana Islands)
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to Pagan Island, it occupied dense reedbeds, rank grasses, and shrubby thickets near freshwater marshes and wet swales. It foraged within vegetation layers, often close to the ground or low reeds. The species likely used edges of wetlands, coconut groves, and tangles along streams or pond margins. No confirmed individuals have been found despite targeted surveys since the late 20th century.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Pagan reed warbler was endemic to Pagan Island in the Northern Mariana Islands and is presumed extinct, with no confirmed records since the 1970s. It has been variously treated as a distinct species or as a subspecies of the nightingale reed warbler. Likely drivers of its disappearance include habitat degradation, invasive predators, and severe typhoons affecting the island’s limited wetlands.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically observed singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, building a small cup nest suspended in reeds or dense grasses. Clutches were probably small (around 2–3 eggs), with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied, scratchy warble interspersed with chattering notes typical of Acrocephalus reed warblers. The song was delivered from within cover or low perches and could be persistent at dawn and dusk.
