The Oriental Reed Warbler bird, scientifically known as Acrocephalus orientalis, is a small-sized passerine bird belonging to the family Acrocephalidae. It is also commonly called the Eastern Great Reed Warbler or the Mountain Reed Warbler. This bird species is widely distributed across Asia, from the eastern part of the Himalayas to Japan, and down to Indonesia. Oriental Reed Warbler birds are migratory birds and they fly to their breeding grounds in Siberia and northeastern China from their wintering sites in Southeast Asia.
Oriental Reed Warbler birds have a distinctive appearance with a sharp-pointed bill and a buff-colored throat. They are small birds, measuring around 12-14 centimeters in length and weigh around 15-20 grams. The plumage color of this bird species varies depending on the gender and age of the bird. The males have a distinctive brownish-grey back and head with bright brown wings and tail. On the other hand, females have a plain brownish-grey plumage with an off-white belly.
These birds are typically found in marshes, reed beds, and other wetland habitats near water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and ponds. They have a unique call that consists of a series of stutters, trills, and whistles. Oriental Reed Warbler birds primarily feed on insects, including moths, grasshoppers, and other small invertebrates.
Breeding of the Oriental Reed Warbler bird occurs in late spring and early summer. They construct their nests in reeds near water bodies and lay 3-5 eggs at a time. The eggs typically hatch in around 10 days, and the young birds often leave the nest after two weeks and become independent after a month.
Oriental Reed Warbler birds play an essential role in their ecosystem and help in controlling the insect populations. However, their population is declining due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. We must take measures to conserve the wetland habitats and protect the Oriental Reed Warbler bird to ensure their survival for future generations.