Chloropeta natalensis
Records: 43
Drafted by: Faansie Peacock
Draft Text Last Updated:
Distribution: PCC records indicate an extensive, previously undocumented range extension to the W and NW of the currently known distribution (Harrison et al. 1997). The area NE of Bronkhorstspruit seems to be a local hotspot for this species. Of the 43 records, 24 (56%) were from Ezemvelo PGP, while several further records were also obtained from that general vicinity (e.g. Trichardtpoort, Gouwkskloof, Wilge River Valley). It was also recorded regularly at Rietvlei Dam Nature Reserve and Zonderwater Wetlands. Populations were also located on several streams S and E of Pretoria. Of particular interest are the records from the lower altitude bushveld regions (e.g. Rooiwal Sewerage Works, Ditholo Nature Reserve). Also recorded W of Pretoria, e.g. 1 bird at Rhino and Lion NR on 24 September 2004 (A. Marx).
Gaps in Knowledge: The complete extent of this species’ range is presently unclear. It should be looked for to the W of Pretoria, particularly on the S foothills of the Magaliesberg (e.g. on the Hennops, Crocodile and Witwatersrand streams). More data for the winter months when this species is unobtrusive and less vocal is needed to determine if altitudinal migration is present. In order to estimate population sizes, linear counts of singing males / distance of river should be carried out.
Habitat: Dark-capped Yellow Warblers are often found in ecotone habitats, and specialized in aquatic habitats in the bushveld / highveld transition zone. Typical habitat includes reed- and sedgebeds (Phragmites, Typha), tall, tangled grass on the edge of streams or vleis, small farm dams with an abundance of aquatic vegetation and even stands of exotic trees, incl. Poplars, Willows & Black Wattles where these border on wetlands. It has found a niche on the many small highveld streams where a mixture of reeds and woody scrub occurs – in such situation it experiences little interspecific competition from other Sylviidae. The presence of suitable songposts in the form of low trees or dead branches also seems to be an important criterion for habitat choice.
Status and movements: Colonization seems to be northwards and westwards from source populations on the Olifants & Wilge Rivers. To some extent, such a range extension might be assisted with the widespread infestation of exotic woody vegetation in wetland habitats. It was recorded in both summer and winter, with records in all months except August, January, March, April and June. The timing of records is not indicative of seasonal, altitudinal migrations. Vocal activity peaks at the start of the breeding season (September – November), after which significantly lower reporting rates were obtained.
Population: Several pairs may hold territories along a particular stream with suitable habitat (pers obs), but insufficient information exists to allow for accurate population estimates.
Conservation: This species has a wide Afrotropical range and is not considered threatened. Its ability to adapt to waterways that has suffered encroachment of exotic plants poses a competitive advantage over Acrocephalus and Bradypterus Warblers.