Western Olivaceous Warbler
Iduna opaca
The Western Olivaceous Warbler is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen during the spring and autumn, with most sightings occurring in the southern and eastern parts of the country. It is a distinctive species that can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodland edges and scrubby areas.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Western Olivaceous Warbler in the field.
The Western Olivaceous Warbler can be identified by its dull brownish-olive plumage, pale yellowish-buff underside, and distinctive white eye-ring, which sets it apart from other similar species. Its long, broad tail and rounded wings are also notable features.
The Western Olivaceous Warbler is slightly smaller than a House Sparrow, measuring around 12-13 cm in length.
The male Western Olivaceous Warbler has a dull brownish-olive back and wings, with a pale yellowish-buff breast and belly, and a white eye-ring that surrounds its dark eye.
The female Western Olivaceous Warbler is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage.
The Western Olivaceous Warbler's call is a sharp, metallic "tek" or "tink" sound, while its song is a melodic, warbling phrase that is often described as sweet and musical.
The Western Olivaceous Warbler is an active and skulking species, often feeding on insects and spiders in dense vegetation, and flying with a rapid, fluttering motion between bushes.
The Western Olivaceous Warbler can be confused with the Eastern Olivaceous Warbler, but can be distinguished by its darker, more olive-toned plumage and distinctive white eye-ring, as well as its more western distribution.
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