During the spring and summer months in Colorado, when the warblers, tanagers, and orioles make their appearance, it is not uncommon to spot yellow birds. However, during the winter season, the American Goldfinch stands as the sole commonly sighted yellow bird in this region.
If you happen to come across a yellow bird in Colorado and are curious about its identification, this guide is here to assist you. By providing pictures, identification details, song recordings, and migration information, this guide will aid in the recognition of the yellow birds you have encountered.
The majority of yellow birds found in Colorado are warblers, orioles, or tanagers. It is worth noting that sometimes, female birds may exhibit strikingly different appearances compared to their male counterparts within the same species.
With the comprehensive information provided in this guide, the task of identifying yellow birds becomes significantly easier. To assist you further, I have arranged the yellow birds in the order of their frequency of sightings in Colorado during the spring and summer months of May and June, based on ebird checklists.
Here is a list of yellow birds you can expect to encounter in Colorado throughout the year: American Goldfinch, Cedar Waxwing, and Evening Grosbeak.
During the summer months, you can spot the following yellow birds in Colorado: Western Meadowlark, Yellow Warbler, Western Kingbird, Lesser Goldfinch, Western Tanager, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat, Orchard Oriole, Dickcissel, Hooded Warbler, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Scott’s Oriole.
When it comes to migration, the following yellow birds can be observed passing through Colorado: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, American Redstart, Baltimore Oriole, Nashville Warbler, Summer Tanager, Palm Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Blue-winged Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, and Black-throated Green Warbler.
Additionally, there are some accidental sightings of yellow birds in Colorado, which include Pine Warbler, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Warbler, Painted Bunting, Prairie Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Eastern Meadowlark, Cape May Warbler, Tropical Kingbird, Canada Warbler, Hooded Oriole, Streak-backed Oriole, and Couch’s Kingbird.
Therefore, continue reading this guide to identify the yellow birds you have encountered. It features a total of 27 yellow bird species found in Colorado.
1. American Goldfinch
For identification purposes, the American Goldfinch possesses distinct characteristics. In spring, male American Goldfinches exhibit vibrant yellow and black plumage, while the females appear browner. During winter, both males and females appear duller.
Scientific name: Spinus tristis
Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.7 oz (11-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
American Goldfinches can be found throughout North America, and while they are typically residents, those that breed in Canada and the Midwest migrate to southern US states for the winter.
These birds can be spotted foraging in weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and even backyards. They primarily feed on sunflower, thistle, and aster plants. Additionally, American Goldfinches are attracted to bird feeders and prefer sunflower and nyjer seeds.
Interesting fact: Due to their vegetarian diet, American Goldfinches do not raise cowbird chicks, leading to their demise within a few days.
2. Western Meadowlark
Western Meadowlarks are
commonly seen in eastern Colorado throughout the year, while they are more prevalent in the western part of the state during the breeding season.
Scientific name: Sturnella neglecta
Size: 6.3-10.2 in (16-26 cm)
Weight: 3.1-4.1 oz (89-115 g)
Wingspan: 16.1 in (41 cm)
With their yellow bellies and melodious songs, Western Meadowlarks bring cheer to the surroundings. Resembling the size of a Robin, they have shades of brown and white on their upper parts and a black V-shaped band across their bright yellow chest, which turns gray during winter.
Western Meadowlarks breed in northern US states and Canada before migrating to southern states for winter. However, those in the west and Midwest remain in the region throughout the year.
These birds are commonly found on the ground in grasslands, meadows, and fields. They primarily feed alone or in small flocks and tend to avoid woodlands and dense shrubby areas. Their diet consists of insects during the summer and seeds and grain during winter.
Interesting fact: Western Meadowlarks have been designated as the state bird in six US states.
3. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers can be observed in Colorado during the breeding season, but their numbers increase significantly during the migrations in April to May and September to October.
Scientific name: Setophaga coronata
Size: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (12-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 in (19-23 cm)
Gray in color, Yellow-rumped Warblers exhibit flashes of yellow on their face, sides, and rump, with white wings. Females are slightly brown, and winter birds appear paler brown with bright yellow rumps and sides, which transition back to yellow and gray during spring.
Yellow-rumped Warblers breed predominantly in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian Mountains. During migration, they can be observed in the Midwest, while in winter, they inhabit open areas with fruiting shrubs. Their diet primarily consists of insects during summer and fruit, including bayberry and wax myrtle, during migration and winter.
Interesting fact: Yellow-rumped Warblers form flocks numbering in the thousands during winter, and they can be territorial and aggressive towards other species.
4. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers spend the breeding season in Colorado, primarily from May to September, and can be found in up to 24% of summer checklists.
Scientific name: Setophaga petechia
Size: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 in (16-20 cm)
These small, bright yellow birds with a yellow-green back exhibit chestnut streaks on the breast in males, while females and juveniles are not as vibrant.
Yellow Warblers undertake long migrations, breeding in Canada and the US (excluding southeastern states) and wintering in Central and South America. However, they can be seen during migration in southeastern US states.
Yellow Warblers are often found along streams, wetlands, and field edges, foraging for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Interesting fact: When their nests are invaded by cowbirds, Yellow Warblers build new nests on top of the old ones, often repeating this behavior up to six times.
5. Western Kingbird
Western Kingbirds are predominantly seen in Colorado during the summer
months, from mid-April to September, appearing in around 20% of checklists during this time.
Scientific name: Tyrannus verticalis
Size: 7.9-9.4 in (20-24 cm)
Weight: 1.3-1.6 oz (37-46 g)
Wingspan: 15.0-16.1 in (38-41 cm)
These large flycatchers have yellow bellies, whitish chests, gray heads, grayish-brown wings, and black tails with white edges.
Western Kingbirds breed during the summer in western US states, the plains area, and parts of Canada. They migrate to Mexico and Central America during winter, although some individuals may overwinter in southern Florida.
Western Kingbirds can be found in open habitats, often perched on fences and utility lines, waiting to catch insects in mid-flight.
Interesting fact: Western Kingbird parents continue to feed their young for approximately three weeks after they leave the nest.
6. Lesser Goldfinch
Lesser Goldfinches spend the breeding season in Colorado and are primarily seen from June to September, appearing in 11% of summer checklists. However, some individuals remain in the region throughout the year.
Scientific name: Spinus psaltria
Size: 3.5-4.3 in (9-11 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-11.5 g)
Wingspan: 5.9-7.9 in (15-20 cm)
These tiny, brightly colored songbirds display a combination of yellow and black plumage, long pointed wings, and short notched tails. Females have olive backs and appear less vibrant yellow underneath.
Lesser Goldfinches are resident birds in the southwestern US states and the West Coast. However, those that breed in the interior of western US states migrate during winter.
They can be found in large flocks in open habitats such as thickets, weedy fields, forest clearings, parks, and gardens. Lesser Goldfinches primarily forage on seeds, especially sunflower seeds, as well as fruits from elderberry, coffeeberry, and buds from cottonwoods, willows, sycamores, and alders.
Interesting fact: Lesser Goldfinches often interact and chase away larger Lawrence’s Goldfinches from feeders and nesting areas, while still mingling with other bird species.
7. Western Tanager
Western Tanagers are observed in western Colorado during the breeding season, while they can be found throughout the state during migrations. They appear in around 11% of summer checklists and up to 18% of checklists during migrations.
Scientific name: Piranga ludoviciana
Size: 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.3 oz (24-36 g)
These striking birds possess a flaming orange-red head, yellow body, black wings, and white patches on the wings in males. Females exhibit a red face and yellow-green body.
Western Tanagers breed in western US states and western Canada. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern and southern regions of their range. In winter, they spend their time in Mexico and Central America.
Western Tanagers are often found in open coniferous forests, although they tend to remain hidden within the canopy despite their vibrant plumage. Interestingly, their population has shown an increase over the past four decades.
Their diet consists mainly of insects during summer, including wasps and grasshoppers, and they also feed on fruit during fall and winter.
Interesting fact: The red coloring of Western Tanagers is believed to come from pigments derived from insects they consume in
their diet.
8. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers spend the breeding season in Colorado, although they are more commonly observed during migrations. They can be seen from May to October, with September being the peak time for sightings. Wilson’s Warblers appear in around 3% of summer checklists but can be spotted in up to 31% of checklists during fall migration.
Scientific name: Cardellina pusilla
Size: 3.9-4.7 in (10-12 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.3 oz (5-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm)
These tiny round yellow warblers exhibit a large black cap in males and a smaller black cap in females.
Wilson’s Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern US states. They can be seen across all US states during migration, while they spend their winter months in Mexico and Central America.
You can find Wilson’s Warblers along streams in thickets and near forest edges, foraging on insects, their larvae, and spiders.
Interesting fact: Wilson’s Warblers distract potential nest predators by feigning a broken wing, luring the predator away before flying off.
9. Cedar Waxwing
Cedar Waxwings spend the breeding season in western Colorado and can be observed during migrations in the eastern part of the state. Some individuals also remain in the region during winter. They appear in approximately 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
Scientific name: Bombycilla cedrorum
Size: 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm)
Weight: 1.1 oz (32 g)
Wingspan: 8.7-11.8 in (22-30 cm)
These elegant and sociable birds have pale brown heads, chests, and crests, which fade to gray on their backs and wings. Their bellies are pale yellow, and they exhibit bright yellow tips on their tails. They also have narrow black masks over their eyes and bright red wingtips.
Cedar Waxwings breed in Canada before migrating to the southern US, Mexico, and Central America for winter. They are resident birds in northern US states.
You can find Cedar Waxwings in berry bushes, woodlands, grasslands, towns, and along streams. They primarily feed on fruit but also consume insects during the summer.
Interesting fact: Cedar Waxwings engage in a unique courtship behavior where they exchange gifts, passing objects between them.
10. Yellow-headed Blackbird
Yellow-headed Blackbirds spend their summers in Colorado, from mid-March to October, and can be spotted in around 5% of checklists during this period.
Scientific name: Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus
Size: 8.3-10.2 in (21-26 cm)
Weight: 1.6-3.5 oz (44-100 g)
Wingspan: 16.5-17.3 in (42-44 cm)
These striking birds have glossy black bodies, bright yellow heads and chests, and white patches on their wings in males. Females, on the other hand, are brown instead of black, with a duller yellow head.
Yellow-headed Blackbirds breed in western and prairie wetlands, nesting among the reeds. They forage over surrounding wetlands, grasslands, and fields, primarily feeding on insects during the summer. After breeding, they migrate to fields and farmland in Southwest states and Mexico, forming large flocks for the winter.
Yellow-headed Blackbirds have a diverse diet, consuming insects during the summer and seeds and grains during winter.
Interesting fact: Yellow-headed Blackbirds use long wet stems to weave their nests, attaching them to cattails or reeds over the water.
11. Colorado sees Common Yellowthroats
Colorado sees Common Yellowthroats during the breeding season from May to September, appearing on about 7% of summer checklists.
These small songbirds exhibit a brownish back and vibrant yellow underparts, along with long tails. Males possess black masks on their faces, while the brightness of the yellow can vary geographically, sometimes appearing more olive underneath.
Scientific name: Geothlypis trichas
Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (9-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 in (15-19 cm)
During the summer, Common Yellowthroats breed across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest year-round, while others migrate south for winter.
You can find Common Yellowthroats in marshy or wetland areas and brushy fields, preferring thick and tangled vegetation.
Interesting fact: The black mask on male Common Yellowthroats serves as a visual signal to courting males, who may attack when fake birds with masks are used, but not when the bird lacks a mask.
12. Orange-crowned Warblers
Orange-crowned Warblers are observed during the breeding season in Colorado, but they are more commonly seen during migrations. They are recorded on approximately 4% of summer checklists and up to 14% of checklists during migrations.
These warblers have a yellow-olive coloration, often appearing more yellow along the Pacific Coast. Their orange crown is usually concealed and seldom seen.
Scientific name: Leiothlypis celata
Size: 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (7-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5 in (19 cm)
Orange-crowned Warblers breed in Canada and western US states before migrating to the Pacific, East, and Gulf Coasts, as well as Mexico. They can also be spotted during migration in most US states, excluding the northeastern region.
You can find Orange-crowned Warblers in shrubs and low vegetation, although they prefer open woodlands for breeding. Their diet primarily consists of spiders and insects like caterpillars and flies, but they also consume fruit, berries, and seeds. These warblers are known to visit backyard feeders regularly.
Interesting fact: Orange-crowned Warblers will drink from the sapwells created by sapsuckers and woodpeckers.
13. Evening Grosbeaks
Evening Grosbeaks, although considered a vulnerable species in Colorado, can be seen throughout the year. They are recorded on about 1% of summer and winter checklists in the state.
These chunky birds exhibit a striking yellow and black pattern, with adult males sporting a bright yellow stripe over their eyes. Their heads are black, and they have gray necks, yellow chests, and white wing patches.
Scientific name: Coccothraustes vespertinus
Size: 16 to 22 cm (6.3 to 8.7 in)
Weight: 38.7 to 86.1 g (1.37 to 3.04 oz)
Wingspan: 30 to 36 cm (12 to 14 in)
Evening Grosbeaks are year-round residents in southern Canada, extending down the west coast to northern California. However, they migrate south to various US states when cone crops are scarce.
You can find Evening Grosbeaks in forests and mountain regions, and during winter, they are often attracted to bird feeders in backyards due to the easy food supply. Their natural diet consists of flower buds during spring, insect larvae from treet
ops during summer, and seeds, berries, and small fruits during winter.
Interesting fact: Evening Grosbeaks possess powerful bills that allow them to crush seeds too hard for smaller birds, leading them to scavenge whatever is left behind.
14. Orchard Orioles
Orchard Orioles spend the breeding season in eastern Colorado, appearing on 2% of summer checklists. They are most commonly observed from May to August, with migration starting in September.
Female Orchard Orioles display a greenish-yellow coloration overall, paler underneath, and darker on the back. They have darker wings and white wingbars.
Scientific name: Icterus spurius
Size: 5.9-7.1 in (15-18 cm)
Weight: 0.6-1.0 oz (16-28 g)
Wingspan: 9.8 in (25 cm)
During summer, Orchard Orioles breed in the eastern half of the United States before migrating south to Mexico and Central America. They are often found in open woodlands, along riverbanks, in open shrublands, farms, and even backyards. They construct hanging pouch-like nests.
Orchard Orioles primarily feed on insects like ants, caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers, as well as spiders. They also consume fruit, including mulberries and chokeberries.
Interesting fact: The Orchard Oriole is the smallest species of blackbird in North America.
15. American Redstarts
American Redstarts are mainly observed during migrations in eastern Colorado, particularly in May and September.
Male American Redstarts feature a predominantly black plumage with bright orange patches and a white belly. In contrast, females display an olive-gray coloration instead of black, adorned with various yellow patches.
Scientific name: Setophaga ruticilla
Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.3 oz (6-9 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm)
American Redstarts breed in eastern US states, Canada, and northwestern US states. They are also visible during migration in central and western US states.
These warblers can be found in deciduous woodlands, backyards, and thickets, where they feed on insects and occasionally consume berries such as serviceberries and magnolia fruits.
Interesting fact: American Redstart parents selectively feed certain chicks rather than uniformly providing food to all of them.
16. Dickcissels
Dickcissels are primarily spotted in eastern Colorado during the breeding season, spanning from May to mid-October, with their peak abundance occurring in June and July.
Male Dickcissels are remarkable birds, characterized by their black throat patch and yellow chest. Their grayish head provides a striking contrast, while the yellow eyebrow line adds an extra touch. Females exhibit similar markings but with a slightly paler or duller tone. Notably, females lack a black throat patch, and their yellow chest is accompanied by only a faint hint.
Scientific name: Spiza americana
Size: 5.5-6.3 in (14-16 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.4 oz (25.6-38.4 g)
Wingspan: 9.8-10.2 in (24.8-26 cm)
Dickcissels breed in the Central and Great Plains of the United States before embarking on a migration journey to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
These birds can be found in meadows, prairies, tall grasslands, lightly-grazed pastures, and along roadsides. They have a diverse diet, consisting of insects like grasshoppers, caterpillars, beetles, and crickets during the summer. At other times of the year, they may feed on seeds, weeds, grasses, and cultivated grains.
Interesting fact: During fall migration, Dickcissel populations gather in immense numbers, ranging from thousands to millions, as they journey towards their winter grounds.
17. Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore Orioles, though not commonly observed in Colorado, have been spotted in the eastern part of the state during migration in May and late August. Some individuals also choose to stay throughout the summer.
Baltimore Orioles serve as vibrant signs of spring in the eastern regions of North America. Adult males boast bright orange and black plumage, accompanied by white wing bars on their black wings.
Females exhibit a yellowish hue on their underparts and head, while their wings appear grayish-brown. Their backs often display a brownish-yellow coloration. In terms of size, they are similar to Robins but possess a slender build. Baltimore Orioles belong to the blackbird family.
Scientific name: Icterus galbula
Size: 6.7-7.5 in (17-19 cm)
Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz (30-40 g)
Wingspan: 9.1-11.8 in (23-30 cm)
Baltimore Orioles breed in the eastern and central states, including southern Canadian provinces along the southern border with the United States. They subsequently migrate to Florida, Central America, and the Caribbean for winter, with some departing as early as July.
These orioles primarily inhabit open woodlands, riverbanks, forest edges, and even parks and backyards. They feed on a varied diet, comprising insects such as beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, spiders, and snails. While they contribute to pest control, they can also cause damage to crops like raspberries, mulberries, cherries, bananas, and oranges.
Interesting fact: The flute-like song of Baltimore Orioles is one of the enchanting sounds of spring. Additionally, they produce chattering and sharp alarm calls.
18. Nashville Warblers
Nashville Warblers can be glimpsed in Colorado during spring and fall migrations, usually in May and from September to October.
Nashville Warblers primarily showcase a yellow coloration on their underparts, complemented by white lower bellies. Their back exhibits a greenish-yellow shade, while their heads appear gray with a distinct white eyering. Females and juveniles possess less vibrant plumage compared to males.
Scientific name
: Leiothlypis ruficapilla
Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.5 oz (6.7-13.9 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in (17-20 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed in northeastern US states and Canada, with a smaller population present in northwestern US states and extending into British Columbia. They can be observed during migration in most US states, while their wintering grounds are primarily in Mexico.
These warblers are typically found in scrubby habitats and low deciduous forests, where they actively forage for insects.
Interesting fact: Nashville Warblers initially migrate along the Atlantic Coast during their first year but subsequently switch to inland migration routes.
19. Summer Tanagers
Summer Tanagers, although not frequently seen in Colorado, have been sighted in the eastern part of the state during spring migration in May.
Male Summer Tanagers captivate with their bright red plumage and robust, chunky beaks. Females and juveniles, on the other hand, exhibit a predominantly yellow coloration with hints of green on their backs.
Scientific name: Piranga rubra
Size: 6.7 in (17 cm)
Weight: 1.1 oz (30 g)
Summer Tanagers breed in southern and eastern states before migrating to Central and South America for winter.
These tanagers predominantly inhabit open woodlands, where they display an interesting feeding behavior. They capture bees and wasps mid-flight, skillfully dispatching them by beating them against a branch and removing the stinger before consuming them.
Interesting fact: Young Scarlet Tanagers are fed by their parents for an additional three weeks after leaving the nest, as they are not proficient fliers during that period.
20. Palm Warblers
Palm Warblers are not commonly observed in Colorado; however, there is a chance of spotting them in the eastern part of the state during migrations in May and October.
Palm Warblers exhibit a rusty red patch atop their heads, accompanied by a brownish-olive coloration across the rest of their bodies. While they breed in Canada, they can be found in eastern US states during migration and reside year-round along the southern coasts and in Florida.
Scientific name: Setophaga palmarum
Size: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (7-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-8.3 in (20-21 cm)
Palm Warblers predominantly breed in Canada and migrate through eastern US states. Some individuals winter in Florida and along the southeastern coast.
These warblers are typically observed during spring and fall migration in weedy fields, forest edges, and scrubby areas. They often forage along the ground, mingling with other birds such as Sparrows, Juncos, and Yellow-rumped Warblers.
21. Hooded Warblers
Hooded Warblers, though uncommon in Colorado, have occasionally been sighted in the eastern part of the state during the summer season.
These warblers exhibit a striking appearance, with males boasting a vibrant yellow face and a distinctive black hood and throat. Their olive-green upper body contrasts with the yellow underparts, and when they flick their tails, the white underside becomes visible.
Females and immature Hooded Warblers possess a more subdued yellow coloration without the black facial markings.
Scientific name: Setophaga citrina
Size: 5.1 in (13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-12 g)
Wingspan: 6.9 in (17.5 cm)
Hooded Warblers breed in eastern US states before embarking on a southward migration to Central America and the Caribbean for winter.
These warblers can be found in forests with dense understories, where they actively hunt for insects and spiders.
Interesting fact: Hooded Warblers display white spots on their tails, which is believed to startle insects, making it easier for them to capture their prey.
22. Magnolia Warblers, although infrequently observed in Colorado, have been sporadically sighted during migrations.
Male Magnolia Warblers showcase a combination of black and yellow-green plumage. The back is predominantly black, while the underparts exhibit a vibrant yellow hue. Notably, they possess black streaking that forms a distinct “necklace” pattern on their necks and bellies. Females, on the other hand, display a grayer back and lack the pronounced streaking on their bellies.
Scientific name: Setophaga magnolia
Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.5 oz (6-15 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 in (16-20 cm)
Magnolia Warblers breed across Canada and northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern US. For winter, they travel to Central America and the Caribbean.
These warblers are typically found perched on low branches in forests or parks, making it easier to spot them during their migratory journeys. They primarily feed on insects and spiders.
Interesting fact: Magnolia Warblers employ their white-spotted tails to attract females and deter rivals.
23. Yellow-throated Vireos
Yellow-throated Vireos have occasionally been sighted in Colorado during the breeding season.
Yellow-throated Vireos are characterized by their bright yellow and gray plumage, with olive-colored heads. They exhibit a vibrant yellow throat and chest, accompanied by white bellies and grayish-brown backs with white streaks.
Scientific name: Vireo flavifrons
Size: 5.1-5.9 in (13-15 cm)
Weight: 0.5-0.7 oz (15-21 g)
Wingspan: 9.1 in (23 cm)
Yellow-throated Vireos breed in eastern US states and spend the winter in Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
These vireos are often found in mixed woodlands, where they actively forage for insects and sometimes berries.
Interesting fact: Yellow-throated Vireos construct hanging cup-shaped nests made from bark, grass, pine needles, and other plant materials. They attach the nests with spider webs and insect silk to forks in trees.
24. While Black-throated Green Warblers
While Black-throated Green Warblers are not commonly spotted in Colorado, a few individuals have been observed during migrations.
Black-throated Green Warblers are small songbirds with a yellow face, head, and underparts, complemented by an olive
-yellow back. They display black streaking on the sides and wings, and their underbellies are whitish. Males possess prominent black patches on their throats, while females and juveniles exhibit smaller ones.
Scientific name: Setophaga virens
Size: 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (7-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in (17-20 cm)
Black-throated Green Warblers undertake a long migration from the eastern US to their breeding grounds in northeastern US states and Canada. They spend the winter in Mexico, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
These warblers are often found high up in forests, actively feeding on insects. Their black throat distinguishes them from other small yellow birds.
Interesting fact: Male Black-throated Green Warblers can sing over 400 times in an hour and perform a “gloating” flight to assert dominance over rivals.
25. Prothonotary Warblers
Prothonotary Warblers, although not frequently observed in Colorado, have been recorded during migrations in the eastern part of the state.
Prothonotary Warblers exhibit a striking appearance, with bright yellow plumage, blue-gray wings, and tails. They are relatively large for warblers and possess thick black beaks. Their white under-tail is easily noticeable. Females display a slightly paler shade of yellow.
Scientific name: Protonotaria citrea
Size: 5.1 in (13 cm)
Weight: 0.44 oz (12.5 g)
Wingspan: 8.75 in (22 cm)
Prothonotary Warblers breed in eastern US states and migrate to Mexico and northern South America for winter. Some individuals also reside year-round in southern Mexico and Baja California.
These warblers can be found near streams and wet woodlands, where they forage for spiders, insects, and snails. During winter, they also consume fruits and seeds.
Interesting fact: Prothonotary Warblers derive their name from the term “prothonotary,” which refers to the bright yellow robes worn by members of the Roman Catholic church.
26. Scott’s Orioles
Scott’s Orioles have occasionally been sighted in Colorado during the breeding season, spanning from May to July.
Male Scott’s Orioles are distinguishable by their bright yellow undersides, black heads, black backs, and tails with black tips. Females, on the other hand, exhibit a paler yellow hue along with olive-brown backs.
Scientific name: Icterus parisorum
Size: 9.1 in (23 cm)
Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz (32-41 g)
Wingspan: 12.6 in (32 cm)
Scott’s Orioles breed in southwestern US states and northern Mexico, migrating southward for winter. Some populations remain year-round in southern Mexico and Baja California.
These orioles can be found in arid areas on higher slopes, where they feed on insects, nectar, and fruit. They are often seen perched on yuccas and commence their melodious songs before dawn.
Interesting fact: Scott’s Orioles have been known to feed on monarch butterflies, selecting those with fewer toxins to consume.
27. The charismatic Scott’s Orioles
The charismatic Scott’s Orioles have been spotted on rare occasions in Colorado during their breeding season, typically spanning from May to July.
Male Scott’s Orioles are easily recognizable with their vibrant yellow undersides, complemented by black heads, backs, and tails adorned with black tips. In contrast, females exhibit a paler yellow hue along with olive-brown backs.
Scientific name: Icterus parisorum
Size: 9.1 in (23 cm)
Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz (32-41 g)
Wingspan: 12.6 in (32 cm)
Scott’s Orioles breed in the southwestern states of the US and northern Mexico. During their migration, they venture southwards for the winter season. However, some populations choose to remain in southern Mexico and Baja California year-round.
These orioles are commonly found in arid regions, particularly on higher slopes. They actively forage for insects, relish nectar from flowers, and occasionally indulge in fruit. Look for them perched on magnificent yuccas, engaging in their melodious songs before the break of dawn.
Interesting fact: Scott’s Orioles possess a fascinating feeding behavior where they selectively target monarch butterflies, specifically opting for those with lower toxin levels.
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