Sedge Warbler

🔍 Overview
A lively and restless warbler often seen flitting through reedbeds and scrubby wetland edges in Sussex, especially in spring and summer. Its scratchy, varied song bursts from cover and is a sure sign of its presence.

🪶 Key Identification Features

• Size: Small (12–13 cm)

• Plumage: Brown-streaked back, pale underparts

• Distinctive Marks: Bold white supercilium (eyebrow)

• Bill: Fine and pointed

• Tail: Medium, often flicked

• Flight: Quick, low among reeds

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution
Widespread in Sussex wetlands and reedbeds from late April to September.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour
A rapid, chattering song with mimicry. Often delivered from exposed perches or in short song flights.

🍴 Diet
Insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.

📸 Birding Tip
Visit sites like the Adur Valley, Pulborough Brooks or Sheepcote Valley in late spring. Listen for their energetic song near reedbeds.