Desert Warbler

The Desert Warbler is an Old World warbler which has two distinctive forms. These were previously treated as subspecies, but are now given specific status. African Desert Warbler, Sylvia deserti is a resident breeder in northwest Africa.

Asian Desert Warbler, Sylvia nana breeds in south central temperate Asia. This form is migratory, wintering in north easternmost Africa, Arabia and India. It has occurred as a rare vagrant as far west as Great Britain.

This small passerine bird breeds in deserts and other arid environments, with some bushes for nesting. The nest is built in low shrub, and 4-6 eggs are laid.

As with most warblers, the sexes are almost identical. This is a small warbler with a sand-coloured back and head, whitish underparts, and a yellow eye. Like most warblers, it is insectivorous, but will also take berries. The song is a distinctive jingle.

African Sylvia deserti is paler than the Asian species.