Lesser swamp warbler

Introduction: Lesser swamp-warblers (Acrocephalus gracilirostris) have a wider habit and distribution range than the greater swamp-warbler. This species is also known as the Cape reed warbler and inhabit reeds and bulrushes that stand in water of lagoons, rivers, estuaries and marshes.

Distribution: From the Kunene River mouth to Epupa Falls, Etosha National Park, Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip). Common all along the Orange River including Fish River Canyon. Other scattered populations around the country can be observed.
Diet: Forages low down on reeds, just above the water line, amongst leaf litter and tree foliage in close proximity to reeds for mostly invertebrates and possibly small frogs.

Description: Brown upper parts, with a redder rump. Gracilirostris indicates 'slender-billed'.
Breeding: Females only build a dead reed leave nest whilst the male sings from a prominent perch. Usually 2 or 3 eggs are laid between August and March and incubated for around 14 days.

Size: 18cm.

Weight: 14g.