lesser whitethroat

The Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca) is a small and energetic passerine bird belonging to the typical warbler family. This species is common and widespread, breeding throughout temperate Europe (excluding the southwest) and into western and central Asia. As a strongly migratory bird, it travels long distances to winter in sub-Saharan Africa, Arabia, and India.

Measuring approximately 13 cm in length, the Lesser Whitethroat is characterized by its sleek grey back and whitish underparts. It features a grey head with a distinctive darker "bandit mask" through the eyes and a clean white throat. Unlike the Common Whitethroat, both sexes are almost identical, and it lacks the chestnut-colored wings found in its close relatives.

This species primarily inhabits open woodlands, scrub, and cultivated areas. It prefers environments that provide large bushes for nesting and scattered trees for foraging. While they are often found high in trees searching for food, they are equally at home in low-lying bushes and bramble thickets.

Like most warblers, the Lesser Whitethroat is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects and larvae. However, its diet is opportunistic; it will also consume berries and other soft fruits, particularly during the late summer and autumn months to prepare for migration.

The breeding season takes place in temperate regions where the birds build their nests in low shrubs or brambles. The nest is a sturdy cup-shaped structure. A typical clutch consists of 3 to 7 eggs, which are incubated by the parents within the safety of dense vegetation.

The Lesser Whitethroat is known for its fast and rattling song, which consists of a sequence of tet or che calls. This vocalization is quite distinct from the scolding song of the Common Whitethroat. Though they can be secretive, they are highly active birds, constantly moving through foliage in search of prey.

The Lesser Whitethroat is currently categorized as a species of Least Concern. It maintains a large and stable population across its extensive breeding range, though like all migratory birds, it relies on the preservation of both its breeding and wintering habitats.

1. The Lesser Whitethroat is one of the few warbler species where the male and female look almost exactly the same.
2. Despite its small size, this bird performs incredible long-distance migrations, with some populations traveling from Europe to India.
3. The "bandit mask" on its face is a key identification feature that separates it from other similar warblers.
4. Its song is often described as a mechanical-sounding rattle, making it easy to identify by ear even when hidden in bushes.

• Listen for the rattling call during the spring breeding season to help locate this bird in thick cover.
• Look for them in hedgerows and garden shrubbery, especially if there are berry-bearing plants nearby.
• Use binoculars to check for the lack of chestnut wing feathers to distinguish it from the Common Whitethroat.
• The best time to spot them in Europe is between April and September before they migrate south.

The Lesser Whitethroat is a fascinating example of a hardy, migratory warbler. With its subtle grey plumage and distinctive mask, it remains a favorite for birdwatchers across Europe and Asia. Protecting the scrublands and open woodlands they call home ensures that their unique rattling song will continue to be heard for generations to come.