Least Concern

Medium-sized warbler, about 18–21 cm in length. Brownish above with a long, strong bill and pale underparts; slightly larger and bulkier than other reed warblers.

Resident or partially migratory across South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. Indian populations are mostly resident.

Northern populations migrate to South Asia and East Africa during winter.

Breeds mainly from April to August in India and surrounding regions. Builds a deep cup-shaped nest woven from reeds and grasses, suspended between reed stems over water. Clutch size is typically 3–5 eggs.

Found breeding in reed beds, marshes, and dense vegetation near lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

Prefers freshwater marshes, reed beds, and swampy areas, occasionally along irrigation canals and rice fields.

Primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, larvae, spiders, and occasionally small mollusks; forages actively among reeds and vegetation.