Lesser Swamp Warbler

The lesser swamp warbler, also known as the Cape reed warbler, is a modestly adorned bird, stretching a length of 14–16 cm and weighing approximately 20 grams. Its upperparts are cloaked in a rich brown, while a distinctive white supercilium graces its face. The underparts are predominantly white, with a hint of rufous on the flanks. The robust bill, slightly curved downwards, is a blackish-yellow with a more vibrant yellow at the base. Legs of blue-grey and eyes of a deep brown complete its appearance. There is little to distinguish between the sexes or the juveniles in this species.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the lesser swamp warbler, look for its white supercilium and the rufous wash on the flanks. The strong bill with a down-curved upper mandible is a key characteristic, along with its overall brown and white plumage.

Habitat

This species is a dedicated resident of reedbeds found in standing water, where it can be observed navigating the dense vegetation with ease.

Distribution

The lesser swamp warbler has made its home across a vast expanse of Africa, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, and Ethiopia, all the way to the southern reaches of South Africa.

Behaviour

A creature of habit, the lesser swamp warbler is monogamous, forming lifelong pair bonds. It is often seen alone or with its mate, intricately moving through the reeds or scaling the stems in search of sustenance. It constructs a deep and sturdy cup nest from reed blades, grass, and sedges, lined with finer grasses, always situated above water. Nesting predominantly occurs from August to December, with the earliest nests appearing in the Western Cape Province's winter rainfall areas.

Song & Calls

The lesser swamp warbler's vocal repertoire is a delightful symphony of bubbly phrases, including trilling notes and a variety of cheerup chee trrreee sounds, interspersed with thoughtful pauses.

Breeding

Two or three brown eggs are laid within the carefully constructed nest, marking the beginning of the next generation of lesser swamp warblers.

Diet and Feeding

Insects and other small invertebrates form the cornerstone of this bird's diet, which it forages for within its wetland realm.

Subspecies

The lesser swamp warbler is represented by a number of subspecies, including A. g. neglectus, A. g. tsanae, A. g. jacksoni, A. g. parvus, A. g. leptorhynchus, A. g. winterbottomi, A. g. cunenensis, and the nominate A. g. gracilirostris. Each subspecies may exhibit slight variations in plumage or size, adapted to their specific regional habitats.

Conservation status

With an estimated range of 5,700,000 km² and a population size considered to be large, the lesser swamp warbler does not meet the criteria for a population decline as per the IUCN Red List. It is thus classified as Least Concern.