Reed Warbler
Acrocephalus scirpaceus
Ceolaire giolcaí
Status All Ireland: Breeding
Population estimate all Ireland: 50 – 150 pairs
Trend (12 years): Increase
Trend (40 years): Increase
Survey timing: May to July
Habitat: Reedbed (wetland)
Occurrence: Almost all known breeding sites are on or close to the coast, in the south and east of the country (Cork, Waterford, Wexford & Wicklow) and eastern counties in Northern Ireland.
Habitat preference (simple description of preferred nesting habitat): Mainly in phragmites reedbeds, but also in linear strips of reed and brambles along wet ditches. Always associated with water. Nest usually built suspended between reeds.
Preferred ways to establish breeding status: Reed Warblers are extremely vocal. To identify the species is present in a reedbed, it is essential to know the song (more rhythmic than the only likely confusion species – Sedge Warbler). Males sing while clinging to a reed, often just below the seed head, if the spot is watched long enough, it will often be seen climbing to the top. Watch further and a female may be noted. Continued observation at the site over a period of days or weeks should confirm breeding activity i.e., adults carrying food. A scolding “charr” call often given near nest.
