Namaqua warbler

Introduction: Namaqua warblers (Phragmacia substriata) are common along permanent rivers and streams with Acacia woodland and reedbeds. Difficult to observe as they tend to keep to dense cover. Usually they can be observed singly or in pairs, except after breeding when they gather in small groups. Phragmacia is a Latin word from the plant genera Phragmites and Acacia, the 2 dominant plant species characteristic to their habitat.

Distribution: Found along the entire Namibian range of the Orange River and in Fish River Canyon.
Diet: Eats small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, bugs and wasps. Also takes whole fruits, pulp and seeds.

Description: A small, long-tailed warbler that doesn't cock or swivel its tail. Substriata refers to their lightly dark brown streaked, white chin and throat and off-white breast colouring.
Breeding: From 2 to 4 eggs are laid (August to April) in a deep, open cup made of dry grass, strips of bark and roots. They are incubated for about 16 days.

Size: 14cm.

Weight: 12g.