Sedge Warbler
Acrocephalus scirpaceus
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
Sedge Warblers arrive in April with a rush of energy and song. The male sings a rambling, scratchy medley from deep in the vegetation — often incorporating mimicry of other species. They fatten heavily on aphids and other insects before migrating back to Africa in August.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Acrocephalidae |
| Habitat | Reed bed · Tall marsh vegetation · Willow scrub edge |
| Diet | Insects, spiders, small invertebrates |
| UK population | Around 280,000 breeding pairs |
| Sefton Coast | Breeding species at Marshside; present April–August in suitable vegetation |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Reed beds and tall vegetation at Marshside RSPB. Dense rushes at Ainsdale NNR.
Identification
Small, streaked brown warbler. Bold cream supercilium. Streaked back, plain rufous rump. Loud, scratchy, variable song.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Listen for the song from any tall vegetation near water from April. They occasionally sing from exposed perches early morning.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species is on the UK Green List, indicating a healthy population status in the UK context. It remains an important component of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell Sedge Warbler from Reed Warbler?
Sedge Warbler has a bold cream supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and a streaked back — Reed Warbler has no supercilium and a plain warm brown back. Sedge Warbler's song is more varied and scratchy, often incorporating mimicry; Reed Warbler's song is more rhythmic and repetitive.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.