Melodious Warbler
Scientific Name: Hippolais polyglottaMaltese Name: Bekkafik ta' l-Ghana
Family: Warblers and allies (Sylviidae)
Occurence: Very Rare
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Melodious Warbler is a warbler in the tree warbler genus Hippolais. It breeds in southwest Europe and northwest Africa. It is migratory, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. This small passerine bird is a species found in open woodland with bushes. This is a medium-sized warbler, 12-13cm in length, and similar to its eastern counterpart, Icterine Warbler. The main feature that distinguishes these two species is the difference in the primary projection; much shorter in Melodious. The adult has a plain brown back and wings, and yellowish underparts. The bill is strong and pointed and the legs are brown. Like most warblers, it is insectivorous, but will take other small food items including berries. The song is a pleasant babbling one.
Status:
Vagrant. Only 14 records of this species. Latest record was on 8th May 2002 from Comino.
When to See:
12 records in spring (Late April/Early May). 1 Record in August and 1 Record in September.
Where to See:
No Particular Location to see this species but last 3 records are all from Comino.
Photographs:
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| Melodious Warbler, 15th April 1978, Ghadira Nature Reserve | Melodious Warbler, 1st May 2001, Comino |
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