The Roraiman warbler is a species of passerine bird in the new world warbler family Parulidae. It is known to associate with Tepui rainforest ecosystems and is found in southern Venezuela, western Guyana, and adjacent areas of northern Brazil. The bird has been periodically granted full species status, although it has also been occasionally considered a subspecies of two-banded warbler. Based on the population's physically disparate distance from the nominate species, vocal differences, and slight differences in plumage, several authorities consider the Roraiman warbler independent. Recent genetic evidence also indicates the birds of northern South America are significantly diverged from the two-banded warbler populations in the Andes.
Region
Guiana Shield Tepui region
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Venezuela, western Guyana, and adjacent northern Brazil, centered on sandstone table mountains (tepuis). It inhabits humid montane evergreen forest, cloud forest, and dense edge thickets, especially along ravines and stream gullies. The species favors mossy, shaded understory with abundant leaf litter and tangled shrubs. It can also be found in elfin forest and shrubbery near tepui summits where trees are low and wind-shaped.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This warbler is tied to the tepui highlands of the Guiana Shield, where it forages in mossy, humid forests. It was long treated as part of the two-banded warbler complex, but vocal, plumage, and genetic differences support its recognition as a distinct species. It is a lively understory skulk, often detected by its thin, ringing song rather than by sight.
Temperament
skulking and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed low, on banks or among roots near streams, as in close relatives. Pairs maintain small territories and may stay together year-round.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, clear, accelerating notes and brief trills delivered from low perches. Calls include sharp tsip and seep notes used to keep contact while foraging.
