Rimatara reed warbler

The Rimatara reed warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It is found only in Rimatara in French Polynesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and swamps. Due to its limited geographic distribution, this bird is classified as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

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Distribution

Region

Polynesia, South Pacific

Typical Environment

Occurs only on Rimatara, where it inhabits dense thickets, secondary dry forest, coastal scrub, and reed- or sedge-lined swales. It frequents edges of wetlands, pandanus and hibiscus groves, and overgrown agricultural plots. The species forages from near ground level up to the mid-story, staying close to cover. It tolerates some habitat disturbance if dense shrub layers remain.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 100 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm

Wing Span22–25 cm

Male Weight0.024 kg

Female Weight0.022 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This little reed warbler is confined to the tiny island of Rimatara in French Polynesia, making it highly vulnerable to habitat change and introduced predators. Conservation attention focuses on biosecurity to keep invasive rats and cats off the island and on protecting remaining thickets and wetland patches. It forages low in dense vegetation and is often heard before it is seen. Its plain plumage is typical of Pacific reed-warblers, but its long, slender bill and strong song help with identification.

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, usually low and direct over vegetation

Social Behavior

Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories in dense cover. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or reeds. Likely monogamous with both parents participating in care, as in other Acrocephalus warblers.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A loud, varied warble with chattering phrases and harsh scolds delivered from concealed perches. The song carries well through thickets and often includes repeated rhythmic motifs. Call notes are sharp ‘tchk’ or ‘churr’ given when alarmed.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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