Found in open, scrubby habitats from coastal heaths, open woodlands, and low hedges to bramble thickets on waste ground. Rather retiring, like most warblers, but jerky climbing display flight often draws attention. Also gives its burbling, buzzing song from a perch. Often gives a rising, sparrow-like “weet, weet.” Plumage brownish overall with bright rusty wings; grayer head has narrow whitish eyering and sets off white throat, which often looks a little puffy.