Cyprus Warbler

The Cyprus warbler, Curruca melanothorax, is a small, distinctive warbler endemic to the island of Cyprus. Exhibiting sexual dimorphism, the adult male is characterized by a grey back, a striking black head, and white malar streaks, often referred to as "moustaches." A unique feature among its kin, the male's underparts are heavily streaked with black. The female, in contrast, sports a more subdued palette with a greyer head and lightly spotted whitish underparts.

Identification Tips

To identify the Cyprus warbler, look for the male's black head and the distinctive white malar streaks, coupled with the black-streaked underparts. The female is less conspicuous, with a greyish tone overall and only light spotting. Both sexes share a small stature typical of warblers.

Habitat

This bird favors the dry open country of Cyprus, often found on hill slopes. It thrives in areas with sufficient bush cover for nesting, such as low shrubbery or gorse.

Distribution

The Cyprus warbler is a short-distance migrant, breeding exclusively on Cyprus and wintering in nearby regions such as Israel, Jordan, and Egypt.

Behaviour

As a typical warbler, this species is active and insectivorous. It is also known to consume berries, indicating a degree of dietary flexibility.

Song & Calls

The Cyprus warbler's song is a fast and rattling affair, bearing a resemblance to the vocalizations of the Sardinian warbler.

Breeding

The nest of the Cyprus warbler is constructed within low shrubbery or gorse. The female lays a clutch of 3–5 eggs, which both parents then tend to.

Similar Species

The Cyprus warbler forms a superspecies with Rüppell's warbler, sharing characteristics such as dark throats, white malar streaks, and light remigial fringes. It is also related to other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Curruca warblers, such as the eastern subalpine warbler, Sardinian warbler, and Menetries's warbler.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, the Cyprus warbler also supplements its diet with berries, particularly when insects are less abundant.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Cyprus warbler as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population levels warranting a higher risk category.