Show Navigation

Image 1 of 1

156426.jpg

Add to Lightbox Download
Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris (L 13-14cm) is very similar to a Reed Warbler and the best way to separate the two is by song: a Marsh’ is rich and varied, including amazing mimicry of both other European songsters and species learnt in its African wintering grounds. It also favours subtly different habitats, namely rank waterside vegetation (including nettles and brambles) rather than reedebeds. On close inspection, subtle plumage and structural differences also exist between the two species. An adult Marsh has grey-brown upperparts (not ‘warm’) including the rump, and pale underparts suffused yellow-buff. The legs are pinkish (not dark) and the soles of the feet look yellowish. The species is a rare summer visitor and just a handful of pairs breed.
Copyright
PAUL STERRY/Nature Photographers Ltd
Image Size
3543x2365 / 5.2MB
www.naturephotographers.co.uk
Contained in galleries
BIRDS
Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris (L 13-14cm) is very similar to a Reed Warbler and the best way to separate the two is by song: a Marsh’ is rich and varied, including amazing mimicry of both other European songsters and species learnt in its African wintering grounds. It also favours subtly different habitats, namely rank waterside vegetation (including nettles and brambles) rather than reedebeds. On close inspection, subtle plumage and structural differences also exist between the two species. An adult Marsh has grey-brown upperparts (not ‘warm’) including the rump, and pale underparts suffused yellow-buff. The legs are pinkish (not dark) and the soles of the feet look yellowish. The species is a rare summer visitor and just a handful of pairs breed.