Ruppell's Warbler
Scientific Name: Sylvia rueppelliMaltese Name: Bufula tal-Pavalor
Family: Warblers and allies (Sylviidae)
Occurence: Rare
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Rüppell's Warbler is a warbler of the genus Sylvia. It breeds in Greece, Turkey and neighbouring islands. It is migratory, wintering in north east Africa. It is a typical "sylvia" warbler, similar in size but slimmer than Sardinian Warbler. The adults have a plain grey back and paler grey underparts. The bill is fine and pointed, with brown legs and red eyes. The striking male has a black head and, usually, a black throat, separated by a white malar streak ("moustache"). Females have a pale throat, and the head is grey rather than black. Their grey back has a brownish tinge. The song is a slower, deeper rattle than that of Sardinian Warbler. This small insectivorous passerine bird is found in thick thorny shrubs where it builds its nest and lays four to six eggs. The species is named after the German zoologist and explorer Eduard Rüppell (1794-1884).
Status:
Rare and Irregular. It is mainly recorded in Spring, but there are records also in Autumn.
When to See:
Most records in March and April.
Photographs:
 |
Female Ruppell's Warbler, March 2006, Dwejra Malta |
 |
 |
| Female Ruppell's Warbler, March 2006, Dwejra Malta | Male Ruppell's Warbler, 27th March 1976, Wied Znuber |
Back to Bird Species List