The Yemen warbler or Yemen parisoma is a species of Old World warbler in the family Sylviidae. It is found on the southeastern slope of the Sarawat Mountains of Yemen and Saudi Arabia, where its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests. It is threatened by habitat loss and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed its conservation status as being "Near Threatened."
Region
Southwestern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs on the southeastern slopes of the Sarawat Mountains in Yemen and adjacent southwestern Saudi Arabia. It inhabits subtropical and tropical dry forests, especially acacia- and juniper-dominated woodlands, as well as scrubby wadis and terraced hillsides. Birds forage from the understorey to mid-canopy, often along edges and in semi-open woodland. It tolerates some habitat mosaic but depends on intact woody cover for nesting and feeding.
Altitude Range
1200–2800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Yemen parisoma, this small Old World warbler is confined to the southwestern Arabian Peninsula. It was formerly placed in the genus Parisoma but is now generally treated as Curruca. It is a quiet, foliage-gleaning insect hunter that can join mixed-species flocks in montane woodland. Ongoing loss and degradation of dry forest and woodland are its main threats.
Temperament
skulking but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs holding year-round territories; family groups may occur after breeding. It forages methodically through foliage and may join mixed-species flocks in suitable woodland. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees; clutches are small and both parents help rear the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, scratchy warble interspersed with thin whistles and chips, delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp ticks and scolds when alarmed.
Plumage
Plain brownish-grey upperparts with paler, buff-washed underparts and a whitish throat; slightly darker tail and wings with subtle edging.
Diet
Primarily feeds on small insects and other arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It probes among acacia foliage and creeper tangles, occasionally sallying short distances to snatch prey. Small amounts of soft fruit or nectar may be taken opportunistically, especially in dry periods.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understorey to mid-canopy of dry woodland and scrub, along wadi margins, and in terraced agroforestry with remnant trees. Favours areas with a mix of shrubs and small trees providing dense cover.
