The Tuamotu reed warbler is a species of Old World warbler in the family Acrocephalidae. It is found only in French Polynesia.
Region
South Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs on select atolls across the Tuamotu Archipelago, where it occupies dense shrub thickets, pandanus and hibiscus scrub, and coconut plantations. It also uses margins of brackish ponds and lagoon edges where sedges and low reeds are present. Birds typically keep to low to mid-level vegetation, weaving through tangles to forage. In some atolls it persists near villages if continuous shrub cover is maintained. Distribution is highly patchy, with some atolls now unoccupied.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 10 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This island reed-warbler is confined to the low coral atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia, with several forms restricted to single atolls. It frequents dense coastal scrub and coconut groves and often sings from the tops of shrubs. Habitat loss and invasive predators like rats and cats have caused declines and local extinctions. It can be surprisingly bold around human settlements where cover remains intact.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically occurs as territorial pairs during the breeding season and as family groups after fledging. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or sedges. Pairs are largely monogamous and defend small territories with persistent song and chattering calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a loud, varied warble with scratchy notes and short rattles, delivered from exposed perches in shrubs. Calls include sharp chacks and scolds when alarmed. The repertoire can be persistent at dawn and early morning.
