Acrocephalus scirpaceus (Hermann, 1804)

Size Measurements

This species is a medium-sized warbler, measuring 13 cm (5.1 in) in length with a wingspan of 17–21 cm (6.7–8.3 in).

Adult Plumage

Adult common reed warblers have an unstreaked brown back and buff underparts. They have a flattened forehead, and a strong, pointed bill.

Plumage Variation

As with most warblers, males and females have identical plumage; young birds have richer buff coloration on their underparts.

Similar Species Comparison

The common reed warbler looks similar to the great reed warbler, but the great reed warbler is larger and has a more prominent supercilium.

Vocalization

The common reed warbler's song is a slow, chattering jit-jit-jit, with typical acrocephaline whistles and added mimicry.

Habitat

This small passerine bird lives almost exclusively in reed beds, usually with some shrubs present. It can also be found in damp scrub.

Diet

Like most warblers, the common reed warbler is insectivorous, but it will occasionally eat plant material such as berries.