River warbler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River warbler |
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| In Horred, Västra Götaland, Sweden | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Locustella
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| Species: |
fluviatilis
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| Range of L. fluviatilis Breeding Passage Non-breeding Possibly Extant (passage) | |
The river warbler (Locustella fluviatilis) is a small bird known for its unique song. It belongs to a group of birds called Old World warblers. These birds are found in many parts of the world. The river warbler lives in Europe and western Asia.
This bird is a migratory species. This means it travels long distances each year. It spends its summers breeding in Europe and Asia. When winter comes, it flies south to warmer parts of Africa. It usually winters in areas around the Zambezi River. You can find them as far south as Pretoria in South Africa.
The name Locustella comes from a Latin word meaning "grasshopper." This is because some birds in this group sing a song that sounds like an insect. The word fluviatilis also comes from Latin. It means "of a river," which fits where these birds like to live.
About the River Warbler
Where Do They Live?
River warblers like to live near water. You can often find them in thick bushes or trees. They prefer places like bogs or areas close to rivers. They build their nests in grassy clumps or on the ground. A female river warbler usually lays five to seven eggs.
Sometimes, a river warbler might fly far off its usual path. When this happens, it is called a vagant. A few have been seen in western Europe. One even showed up in Gambell, Alaska, in 2017!
What Do They Look Like?
The river warbler is a medium-sized warbler. Its back is a plain grey-brown color. Its belly is whitish-grey. The feathers under its tail are darker. They have white tips, which creates a cool pattern.
Male and female river warblers look very much alike. This is common for many warbler species. Young birds, however, might look a bit more yellow on their undersides. Like most warblers, they eat insects. This means they are insectivorous.
Their Amazing Song
River warblers are shy birds. They often hide in the grass and low plants. This makes them very hard to spot. But you can often hear them, especially when they sing.
Their song is a steady, mechanical sound. It can sound a bit like an insect. Some people say it sounds like a sewing machine. They can sing for a very long time, especially in the evening.
