The thamnornis or thamnornis warbler is a species of Malagasy warbler in the family Bernieridae. It is endemic to Madagascar, where it is restricted to the spiny forest of the island's southwest. It is greyish above and whitish below, with narrow green fringes to the wing feathers and a marked supercilium. The outer tail-feathers have pale tips.
Region
Southwest Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in the spiny thickets and dry scrub dominated by Didierea, Alluaudia, and Euphorbia in the island’s far southwest. It favors dense, thorny understory and low tangles where it can move under cover. Birds are often found near edges, along tracks, and in slightly more humid thickets within the arid mosaic. It can persist in moderately degraded habitat if dense shrub structure remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A monotypic Malagasy warbler, Thamnornis is the sole species in its genus and is now placed in the family Bernieridae after molecular studies. It is tightly associated with the spiny thicket of southwest Madagascar and is often heard before seen as it skulks in dense scrub. Habitat loss from charcoal production and overgrazing is its primary threat.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, hopping flights between bushes
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with soft calls while foraging close to the ground. Nests are placed low in dense scrub, with breeding likely in the austral spring–summer.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The song is a series of dry, chattering notes and short trills delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp chips and scolds that can carry surprisingly far in still conditions.
