Yemen warbler  (Sylvia buryi)

This is a rather plain-looking warbler with a large head, short wings and a long tail (2) (3). Both sexes are sooty-grey to dark brown above, with a darker head, especially around the eye (2) (3). The iris is distinctively white, contrasting with the dark orbital ring. The dark upperparts are clearly demarcated from the pale underparts, which are white on the throat and buffish on the belly, with a dull apricot patch between the legs (2).

Native to southwest Saudi Arabia and west Yemen (2).

In Yemen, this bird is associated with woodland and cultivated terraces dominated by the tree Acacia origena, but also occurs in bushes, hedgerows and other trees such as willow (2) (3). In Saudi Arabia, this species is found mostly within well-developed Juniperus woodland (3). Recorded between 1500 and 2900 m above sea level (2).

The Yemen warbler nests in bushes or trees, normally at a low height (2) (3). Mated pairs are monogamous and breed from March to July, although partners are thought to remain together for most of the year. Clutches typically contain three eggs (2).

The diet consists primarily of insects, but fruits will also be taken when available. Feeding on nectar has also been suggested, although no detailed information exists on this (2).

The Yemen warbler is threatened by deforestation and alteration of its montane woodland habitat through agricultural intensification, a growing human population and unsustainable use of forest resources (2) (3). Lopping and cutting of trees and shrubs for fuel, animal fodder and building material are occurring at a rapid rate in many parts of Yemen, and prevent woodland regeneration (2) (3).

The Yemen warbler occurs in at least two protected areas in Saudi Arabia: Asir National Park and Raydah Reserve (2) (3). This species is also present in several traditional rangeland reserves (mahjur) in south-west Arabia, where vegetation is protected for use as animal fodder in times of drought (2). However, since the advent of more readily available livestock feed, the management of these areas has been widely neglected or, in some cases, abandoned (2) (3).

For more information on the Yemen warbler see:

• BirdLife International:
  http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/index.html?action=SpcHTMDetails.asp&sid=8068&m=0

This information is awaiting authentication by a species expert, and will be updated as soon as possible. If you are able to help please contact:
arkive@wildscreen.org.uk