Upcher's Warbler

The Upcher's warbler (Hippolais languida) is a medium-sized member of the Old World warbler family. It bears a resemblance to the icterine warbler in size, but can be distinguished by its slightly longer bill, shorter wings, and longer tail. Its plumage is predominantly grey, evoking the olivaceous warbler, yet it is the bird's tail movements that are particularly characteristic, often recalling those of a Sylvia warbler or a chat.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify Upcher's warbler, look for its frequent tail movements, which are quite distinctive. The grey plumage may lead one to confuse it with the olivaceous warbler, but the tail movements are a reliable diagnostic feature.

Habitat

This species is adapted to semi-desert environments, where it can be found in bushy scrub and thickets, often favoring the presence of tamarisk.

Distribution

Upcher's warbler breeds across a swath of territory extending from Turkey to Pakistan. It is a migratory bird, heading to eastern Africa for the winter months, with its range there stretching from Eritrea and Somalia down to Tanzania.

Behaviour

The Upcher's warbler is known for its active tail movements, which are reminiscent of both Sylvia warblers and chats. It is a migratory species, undertaking long journeys between its breeding and wintering grounds.

Song & Calls

The song of Upcher's warbler is similar to that of other Hippolais warblers but is distinctive and unmistakable within its genus. It is notably different from the song of the olivaceous warbler.

Breeding

During the breeding season, Upcher's warbler lays a clutch of four or five eggs. The nest is typically situated in bushes or low trees, providing some shelter for the developing brood.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of Upcher's warbler consists primarily of invertebrates, which it forages for in its semi-desert habitat.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified Upcher's warbler as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation concern.