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River Warbler Sprinkaansanger Locustella fluviatilis Records: 7 | Drafted by Faansie Peacock 1st Draft: 27 December 2004 [Not Yet Reviewed] Reviewer: Etienne Marais Send comments/inputs to the |
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Distribution: Occurs widely at (normally) very low densities. Mostly occurs north of c. 25S, with occasional records further south. Data suggests that distribution is restricted to major river valleys. Habitat: Dense, overgrown thickets, usually close to water is preferred. Acacia, Ziziphus & Combretum woodland on clay soils, with a dense understorey. Status: Annual but rare, non-breeding, Palaearctic migrant, December - April. All records were from March or early April, when this species becomes vocal prior to migration. Population: Isolated and localized, population normally very low. In some years (e.g. 2004) widespread influxes occurs, with population densities of 1 bird/207m along linear river counts (Marais & Peacock 2004). Secretive status and silent nature makes detailed population estimates difficult. Conservation: Probably marginal. No threat status currently assigned (Barnes, K.N. 2000). Disturbance from birdwatchers, habitat destruction, overgrazing and urbanization are the main threats. | |