| The
Graceful Prinia is a small, agile bird found in Qatar as both a regular
breeding resident and a winter visitor. Most active in late winter and early
spring, this species is known for its distinctive call and secretive
behavior. Habitat & Behavior Preferred Habitats: Commonly found in reed beds and tamarisk shrubs around wastewater lagoons, particularly in areas like Al Khor and Abu Nakhla. The Delicate Prinia (Prinia lepida), currently the main subspecies in Qatar, shows a preference for reed beds. Occasionally seen in drier habitats and parks but primarily stays in dense vegetation. Behavior: Often heard before being seen, as it hides in dense vegetation. Agile and active, frequently flitting about and cocking its long tail, which sways from side to side. Typically seen alone or in pairs, moving energetically in search of insects. Appearance & Physical Characteristics Plumage: Greyish-brown upperparts with lighter underparts, blending well into its habitat. Tail: Long and often cocked, frequently moved from side to side. Visual Similarity: Males and females are nearly identical, making them hard to distinguish visually. Call The Graceful Prinia is recognized by its loud, monotonous, and continuous song, often described as “zeee-tit zeee-tit.” This call is key to identifying its presence, especially when it remains hidden in vegetation. Size and Comparison The Graceful Prinia is a small, delicate bird, slightly larger than a warbler but smaller than sparrows. Its long, cocked tail and energetic movements make it easily distinguishable once spotted. Seasonal Presence Breeding Resident: The Graceful Prinia breeds regularly in Qatar and is present year-round. Winter Visitor: Most active and noticeable during late winter and early spring. This species' combination of secretive behavior, lively movements, and distinctive call makes it a fascinating and challenging bird to observe in Qatar’s wetlands and reed beds. As mentioned eariler in Sandgrouse Magazine: Graceful Prinia-Prinia gracilis sensu stricto ,In Qatar, this taxon seemingly prefers drier habitats & parks SG44:1 247 Delicate Prinia-Prinia lepida, In Qatar, this taxon seemingly prefers reedbeds SG44:1 247 Later at the same Sandgrouse Magazine (SG45) . it's likly mentioned that the only race exists now in Qatar is the Delicate Prinia-Prinia lepida |
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