Marsh Warbler
Acrocephalus palustris
The Marsh Warbler is a rare migrant in Britain, typically seen during the spring and autumn, with the majority of sightings occurring in the southern and eastern regions of the country. It can be found in wetland areas, such as marshes and reedbeds, where it breeds in continental Europe.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Marsh Warbler in the field.
The Marsh Warbler can be identified by its brownish-grey back, white underside, and distinctive white eye-ring, as well as its long, broad tail and rounded wings. Its greyish-brown crown and pale brown wings also help to distinguish it from other warblers.
The Marsh Warbler is slightly smaller than a Blackbird, but larger than a Garden Warbler.
The male Marsh Warbler has a brownish-grey back, wings, and tail, with a white underside and a greyish-brown crown, and its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
The female Marsh Warbler is similar to the male in terms of plumage, with no significant differences in colour or pattern.
The Marsh Warbler's song is a distinctive and complex series of melodic phrases, often incorporating imitations of other bird species, while its call is a sharp, metallic "tak" or "tek" sound.
The Marsh Warbler is an active and secretive bird, often feeding on insects and spiders in dense vegetation, and its flight is typically swift and direct, with a tendency to dart between cover.
The Marsh Warbler can be confused with the Reed Warbler, but can be distinguished by its greyish-brown crown, longer tail, and more rounded wings, as well as its distinctive song and call.
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