Pale-legged Leaf Warbler

The Pale-legged Leaf Warbler, Phylloscopus tenellipes, presents itself as a modestly adorned avian, stretching to a length of 12 centimeters. Its plumage is a study in understated earth tones, with the upperparts cloaked in a gentle brown, while the crown and nape are a subtle greyish-brown. A distinctive whitish supercilium, which does not grace the forehead but extends well past the eyes, offers a striking contrast. The cheeks are a mottled pale brown, and the throat is a clean whitish hue.

Identification Tips

Upon encountering this species, one should note the dark brown eyeline, which broadens behind the eye, and the white undertail coverts that stand out against the paler olive-brown rump and uppertail coverts. The absence of a greenish tinge is noteworthy. The breast and belly are a whitish color, gently washed with pale brown, providing a soft gradient of natural tones.

Habitat

The Pale-legged Leaf Warbler is a denizen of temperate forests, where it flits among the foliage, ever in search of sustenance.

Distribution

This warbler is a native of Manchuria, but when the cold winds of winter beckon, it embarks on a seasonal journey to the warmer climes of Southeast Asia.

Behaviour

The Pale-legged Leaf Warbler is a creature of the canopy, adept at navigating the complex tapestry of leaves and branches that make up its arboreal realm.

Song & Calls

The song of this warbler is a persistent and rhythmic 'tiriririririririri', a sound that once heard, becomes a familiar refrain in the forests it inhabits.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Pale-legged Leaf Warbler as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species graces our planet with a stable population.