Semper's warbler, local name pied-blanc, is a possibly extinct passerine bird of the New World warbler family, Parulidae. It is endemic to Saint Lucia, in the Lesser Antilles.
Region
Lesser Antilles (Saint Lucia)
Typical Environment
Formerly confined to dense, moist montane and mature rainforest in the interior of Saint Lucia, favoring areas with thick understory and leaf-litter. It was often associated with tree-fern thickets, bamboo patches, and steep, shaded ravines. The species foraged close to or on the forest floor and avoided open habitats. If any individuals persist, they are most likely in remote, little-disturbed upland forest remnants.
Altitude Range
300–950 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Semper's warbler, locally called 'pied-blanc', is a shy, ground-skulking New World warbler restricted to Saint Lucia. It is listed as Critically Endangered and possibly extinct; the last widely accepted records date to the mid-20th century. Declines are suspected from habitat loss, hurricanes, and predation by introduced mongooses. Occasional searches continue in remote upland forests.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over understory
Social Behavior
Typically observed singly or in pairs, occasionally with dependent young. Likely monogamous, nesting low in dense vegetation or on banks within forest. Strongly territorial in breeding areas and highly secretive, spending much time on or near the ground.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are poorly documented; historical notes mention thin, high-pitched chips. The song was described as a soft, inconspicuous warble delivered from cover. Calls are quiet and easily missed in dense forest.
