Dartford Warbler

The Dartford Warbler, Sylvia undata, is an Old World warbler which breeds in the warmer parts of south west Europe and northwest Africa. Its breeding range lies west of a line from southern England to the heel of Italy. It is a mainly resident breeder, but there is some limited migration.

This small passerine bird breeds in heathlands often near coasts, with gorse bushes for nesting. The nest is built in low shrub, and 3-6 eggs are laid. Although some populations are badly hit in hard winters, this species can recover well because of repeated nesting and a high survival rate for the young.

Most warblers have an almost identical appearance for both sexes, but several Sylvia species have distinct male and female plumages. The male of this a small warbler species has a grey back and head, reddish underparts, and a red eye. The reddish throat is spotted with white. The female is paler below, especially on the throat, and a browner grey below.

Like most warblers, Dartford is insectivorous, but will also take berries. The song is a distinctive rattling warble.