Discover this comprehensive guide that will assist you in identifying the various species of warblers found in Quebec. It provides detailed photo identification, descriptions, audio recordings of their melodious songs, intriguing facts, and more.
Warblers, those petite migratory songbirds, embark on arduous journeys covering vast distances, spanning from South America all the way to their breeding grounds in Canada. These lively avian creatures, adorned in vibrant shades of yellow and green, swiftly traverse from their nesting habitats to their wintering grounds, serenading us with their diverse repertoire of melodies.
Wood-warblers, also known as North American warblers, predominantly inhabit woodlands and forests, enchanting us with their enchanting presence. Be cautious, for birdwatching enthusiasts may experience “warbler neck,” a discomforting condition caused by craning one’s neck upwards with binoculars, eagerly attempting to spot these feathered treasures perched atop the lofty trees.
While warblers primarily feed on insects, they occasionally grace our backyard feeders, tantalized by seeds and mealworms. Expand your birdwatching endeavors by exploring the other avian species that frequent Quebec and acquire a complimentary identification chart.
This comprehensive guide is dedicated to identifying the regularly occurring warbler species observed in Quebec. The information provided is sourced from avibase and incorporates data collected by passionate birdwatchers utilizing ebird, guaranteeing authentic and reliable insights into the timing of warbler sightings.
For each warbler species featured in this guide, you will have the pleasure of hearing their melodious songs and gaining insights into the diverse types of warbler songs. Additionally, you can refer to an easy-to-use guide highlighting 13 distinct warbler songs, aiding you in their recognition.
A Total of 27 Warbler Species in Quebec
1. Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Yellow-rumped Warblers, characterized by their gray plumage embellished with flashes of yellow on the face, sides, and rump, can be observed during the breeding season in Quebec. However, their numbers significantly increase during migration, peaking from May to October. These delightful birds grace approximately 24% of summer checklists and up to 45% of migration checklists. Their wings boast vibrant white patches, while females exhibit a slightly browner hue. Winter birds present a paler brown complexion, with their sides and rumps transforming into brilliant shades of yellow and gray come spring. Notably, two subspecies exist: the Myrtle Warbler of the eastern US and boreal forests in Canada, lacking a yellow throat, and Audubon’s Warbler of the western region, which features additional white wing markings.
- 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)
Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian mountains. During migration, they grace the Midwest before seeking refuge in the southern and southwestern
US states, along the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America.
These charming birds favor coniferous forests during summer, feasting primarily on insects. As migration and winter approach, they adapt their diet to consist predominantly of fruit, including bayberries and wax myrtles. For an enchanting backyard experience, entice Yellow-rumped Warblers with sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: During winter, Yellow-rumped Warblers gather in flocks numbering in the thousands, exhibiting territorial aggression towards other species that venture too close.
2. Common Yellowthroat:
The Common Yellowthroat, a diminutive songbird, is prevalent in Quebec throughout the breeding season, with a presence on approximately 27% of summer checklists submitted by avid birdwatchers. From May to October, these captivating birds grace our surroundings, and a few stragglers remain until December. Donning a brownish hue on their backs and vibrant yellow plumage underneath, these avian treasures possess long tails. The males are distinguished by their black masks, while the intensity of their yellow coloration may exhibit geographic variations, occasionally leaning towards an olive shade.
- 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)
Common Yellowthroats thrive during the summer breeding season across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. While some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest year-round, the majority undertake a migration journey southward.
These delightful birds can be spotted in marshy or wetland areas and brushy fields, preferring habitats with dense, tangled vegetation. They are particularly fond of such environments due to the abundant insect life present. To entice Common Yellowthroats to your spacious backyard, ensure it is teeming with lush vegetation and native plants, fostering an environment rich in insects.
Fun Fact: The black mask sported by male Common Yellowthroats serves as a signal to courting males, provoking aggressive behavior towards decoy birds. However, these males do not respond aggressively when the decoy lacks the iconic mask.
3. Yellow Warbler:
Yellow Warblers frequently grace the landscapes of Quebec during their breeding season, typically observed from May to September, with a few lingering until December. Approximately 29% of summer checklists document their delightful presence.
These charming avian beings flaunt small, bright yellow bodies complemented by yellow-green backs. Male Yellow Warblers exhibit chestnut streaks on their breasts, while females and juveniles present a slightly duller appearance, devoid of such streaks.
- 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)
Yellow Warblers embark on extensive migrations, voyaging from Central and South America to breed in Canada and the United States (excluding southeastern states). However, during migration, they make brief appearances in southeastern states.
These delightful birds frequently inhabit streamside areas, wetlands, and thickets, often foraging for insects, including caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Fun Fact: Yellow Warblers construct their nests using bark, grass, and plant materials, intricately woven together and secured with spider webs. They then line the nests with softer materials such as hair, feathers, and plant down. With a clutch of up to seven eggs, it takes approximately twelve days for them to hatch and an additional ten days for the young to fledge.
4. American Redstart:
American Redstarts grace southern Quebec during the summer months, appearing on about 24% of checklists during this period. These lively birds arrive in April and commence their migratory journey in October.
Sporting predominantly black plumage, American Redstart males possess eye-catching patches of vibrant orange and a white belly. Conversely, females exhibit an olive-gray coloration, replacing the black of the males, with yellow accents.
- 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)
Breeding populations of American Redstarts extend across eastern United States and Canada, with some individuals even venturing into the northwestern United States. During migration, they can be observed in central and western United States.
These delightful birds are often found in deciduous woodlands, where they actively hunt for insects. Additionally, they may visit backyards and thickets in search of berries, such as serviceberries and magnolia.
Fun Fact: American Redstarts possess a unique song that concludes with a drop in pitch.
5. Magnolia Warbler:
Southern Quebec witnesses the presence of Magnolia Warblers from mid-April to November, accounting for approximately 14% of summer checklists.
Male Magnolia Warblers exhibit black plumage on their backs, contrasted by their yellow underbellies. Distinctive black streaks adorn their necks, extending downwards to their bellies. In contrast, females possess grayer backs and lack the prominent 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 United States, while their migration path takes them through eastern United States. They winter in Central America and the Caribbean.
To catch a glimpse of these delightful warblers, explore low branches in forests and parks, especially during migration. They primarily sustain themselves by feasting on insects.
Fun Fact: Magnolia Warblers exhibit white spots on their tails, which serve as both an attraction for potential mates and a deterrent to rivals.
6. Ovenbird:
Southern Quebec provides a summer home to Ovenbirds, as evidenced by their presence on approximately 17% of summer checklists. These captivating birds arrive in April and embark on their migratory journey in October.
Compared to their warbler counterparts, Ovenbirds possess a drab appearance, characterized by olive-green backs and black-and-white-spotted undersides.
- Scientific Name: Seiurus aurocapilla
- Size: 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-1.0 oz (16-28 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-10.2 in (19-26 cm)
Ovenbirds breed in northeastern United States, Canada, the Midwest, and even extend into northwest Canada. During migration, they can be observed in eastern United States. Winter destinations include Florida, Mexico, Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
These ground-dwelling birds forage through leaf litter in forests, diligently searching for insects.
Fun Fact: Ovenbirds derive their name from the distinct shape of their nests, which closely resembles a Dutch oven.
7. Black-throated Green Warbler:
The breeding season in Quebec brings forth the arrival of Black-throated Green Warblers, as evidenced by their presence on about 11% of summer checklists. Their stay lasts from May to September, with a few stragglers remaining until October.
Males possess deep green plumage on their backs, accompanied by vibrant yellow faces and underparts. A distinguishing black throat sets them apart, providing a sharp contrast against the surrounding colors. In comparison, females exhibit a similar green coloration but lack the black throat, presenting a duller appearance.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga virens
- Size: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 in (19-21 cm)
Black-throated Green Warblers breed across northeastern United States and Canada, while their migration path encompasses eastern United States. Their wintering grounds extend from Mexico through Central America to northern South America.
These delightful birds inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, frequently foraging for insects, including caterpillars and spiders.
Fun Fact: The song of the Black-throated Green Warbler is often described as “trees, trees, murmuring trees,” reflecting its tonal quality.
8. Chestnut-sided Warbler:
Chestnut-sided Warblers grace southern Quebec during their breeding season, featuring on approximately 16% of summer checklists. They arrive in May and commence their migratory journey in September.
Males exhibit a vibrant combination of yellow and chestnut on their heads, flanks, and underparts. Their backs boast a grayish coloration. In contrast, females possess a duller appearance, with greenish upperparts and yellowish underparts.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga pensylvanica
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm)
Chestnut-sided Warblers breed across eastern United States and southeastern Canada, while their migration path encompasses central and northern South America.
These delightful birds inhabit deciduous forests, thickets, and second-growth habitats, actively foraging for insects and occasionally sipping nectar from flowers.
Fun Fact: Chestnut-sided Warblers possess a distinctive song that sounds like “pleased, pleased, pleased to meet ya.”
9. Nashville Warbler:
Nashville Warblers make their presence known in southern Quebec during their breeding season, appearing on approximately 13% of summer checklists. They arrive in May and commence their migratory journey in September.
Nashville Warblers possess olive-green upperparts, complemented by bright yellow underparts. A distinctive gray head with a white eye ring and a yellow patch above the eye distinguishes them.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis ruficapilla
- Size: 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.3 oz (6-9 g)
- Wingspan: 5.9-6.3 in (15-16 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed across Canada, the Great Lakes region, and the northeastern United States. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern United States. Wintering grounds extend from Mexico through Central America to northern South America.
These delightful birds frequently inhabit forests, thickets, and shrubby areas, actively foraging for insects.
Fun Fact: Nashville Warblers are known for their “high, thin, lisping” songs.
10. Black-and-white Warbler:
Warblers add their charm to the summer season in Quebec, with a presence on about 10% of summer checklists. They arrive in April and embark on their migratory journey in October.
These distinctive warblers exhibit a striking black-and-white striped pattern on their backs, wings, and heads. Their underparts showcase a white coloration.
- Scientific Name: Mniotilta varia
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in (18-20 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed across eastern United States, southeastern Canada, and the Great Lakes region. During migration, they can be observed in eastern and central United States. Wintering grounds extend from southern United States through Mexico and Central America to northern South America.
These delightful birds frequent forests, woodlands, and parks, actively foraging for insects on tree trunks and branches.
Fun Fact: Black-and-white Warblers are often referred to as the “zebra-backed warbler” due to their distinct black-and-white striped pattern.
11. Tennessee Warbler:
During the breeding season, Tennessee Warblers grace southern Quebec, appearing on approximately 9% of summer checklists. Their arrival starts in May and extends until November in the southern region.
Tennessee Warblers feature a predominantly olive-yellow plumage with a gray head and a white eye-ring. Females possess a greener hue and a yellow eye-ring. Both genders display white bellies and distinctive yellow undertails.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis peregrina
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.3 oz (6-9 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in (17-20 cm)
Tennessee Warblers breed in northeastern United States and Canada, with some venturing as far south as Virginia and North Carolina. During migration, they traverse various eastern US states.
These charming warblers can be found in scrubby habitats, deciduous forests, and low-lying thickets, actively foraging for insects.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, Tennessee Warblers spend minimal time in Tennessee, as they were initially discovered and named there.
12. Northern Parula:
The breeding season in Quebec welcomes the enchanting Northern Parulas, with their presence recorded on about 8% of summer checklists. They arrive in mid-April and continue their migratory journey in October.
Northern Parulas exhibit captivating blueish-gray upperparts, complemented by a yellow patch on their back and two distinct white wingbars. Males and females share similar plumage characteristics.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga americana
- Size: 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.4 oz (5-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 in (16-18 cm)
Northern Parulas breed across eastern United States, southeastern Canada, and the Great Lakes region. Wintering grounds encompass Florida, Mexico, Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
These delightful birds prefer deciduous forests, woodlands, and thickets as their habitats, actively foraging for insects.
Fun Fact: Northern Parula females take charge of incubating the eggs and feeding the young, while males provide musical serenades and remove fecal sacs.
13. Black-throated Blue Warbler:
Black-throated Blue Warblers grace southern Quebec during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 9% of summer checklists. They arrive in April and commence their migratory journey in October.
Male Black-throated Blue Warblers showcase a captivating deep blue plumage on their backs, contrasting with their white underparts. In contrast, females possess a duller olive-gray plumage.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga caerulescens
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.9 in (19-20 cm)
Black-throated Blue Warblers breed across northeastern United States and Canada. During migration, they can be observed in eastern US states. Wintering grounds extend from Central America to the Caribbean.
These charming birds inhabit lower areas of deciduous forests, shrubby areas, and occasionally visit backyards in search of spiders, flies, and caterpillars.
Fun Fact: Male Black-throated Blue Warblers continue to sing after the breeding season, indicating their successful territories.
14. Northern Waterthrush:
Northern Waterthrushes make their appearance in Quebec from mid-April to mid-November, gracing approximately 7% of summer checklists.
Northern Waterthrushes exhibit a thrush-like appearance, characterized by brown heads with thick white eyebrows, dark brown backs, and white bellies with bold streaking extending from their throats to their rumps. Both males and females share similar traits.
- Scientific Name: Parkesia noveboracensis
- Size: 5.75 inches (15 cm)
- Weight: 0.8 oz (23 g)
- Wingspan: 8.75 inches (22 cm)
Northern Waterthrushes breed in Canada, Alaska, and northeastern United States, subsequently migrating to Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Some individuals may remain in Central and South America year-round.
These remarkable birds favor dark, woody swamps, thickets, and bogs as their habitats. They exhibit both aquatic and terrestrial foraging behaviors, feeding on water beetles, mosquitoes, slugs, crustaceans, snails, and even small fish.
Fun Fact: Northern Waterthrushes are often observed walking rather than hopping, and their bobbing tail motion gives them a unique appearance.
15. Blackburnian Warbler:
Southern Quebec hosts Blackburnian Warblers during the breeding season, with their presence recorded on approximately 7% of summer checklists. These beautiful warblers arrive in April and embark on their migratory journey in October.
Blackburnian Warbler males captivate with their black and orange plumage, showcasing an orange throat and face markings, black backs and wings, and a white-streaked belly. Females possess a yellower plumage.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga fusca
- Size: 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8.9-12.6 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
Blackburnian Warblers can be spotted during migration in various eastern US states. They breed across Canada and northeastern United States, with some individuals breeding as far south as Virginia and North Carolina. Their wintering grounds stretch across South America.
These exquisite birds can be found in woods and forests, diligently hunting for caterpillars. Their presence is often noted at the treetop level, somewhat concealed by leaves.
Fun Fact: Male Blackburnian Warblers engage in acrobatic territorial displays, including flying loops and descending at high speeds while spreading and raising their tails.
16. Magnolia Warbler:
Magnolia Warblers visit southern Quebec during the breeding season, making appearances on approximately 7% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in September and October.
Male Magnolia Warblers display a striking plumage with a black face mask, a yellow neck and underparts, and a distinctive white wing patch. Females have a similar pattern but with more subdued colors.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga magnolia
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Magnolia Warblers breed across the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska, as well as parts of northeastern United States. During migration, they can be observed in various eastern US states. Their wintering grounds span from Mexico to Central America and the Caribbean.
These vibrant warblers inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, often foraging in the middle and upper levels of trees for insects, spiders, and berries.
Fun Fact: The Magnolia Warbler’s name does not originate from its preferred habitat or its interaction with magnolia trees, but rather it was named after the wife of renowned ornithologist Alexander Wilson.
17. Bay-breasted Warbler:
Bay-breasted Warblers grace southern Quebec during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 7% of summer checklists. They arrive in late May and depart in September and October.
Male Bay-breasted Warblers showcase a unique plumage with chestnut-colored crowns, black faces, and pale underparts streaked with chestnut. Females exhibit more subdued colors with yellowish underparts.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga castanea
- Size: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Bay-breasted Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska, as well as in parts of northeastern United States. During migration, they can be observed in various eastern US states. Their wintering grounds extend from Central America to northern South America.
These lovely warblers primarily inhabit coniferous forests, foraging actively in the upper canopy for insects, caterpillars, and berries.
Fun Fact: The Bay-breasted Warbler is known for its close resemblance to the closely related Blackpoll Warbler, often leading to identification challenges, especially during fall migration.
18. Chestnut-sided Warbler:
Chestnut-sided Warblers visit Quebec during the breeding season, gracing approximately 7% of summer checklists. They arrive in May and depart in September and October.
Male Chestnut-sided Warblers exhibit a striking plumage combination of yellow underparts, a greenish back, and a chestnut crown and sides. Females have more subdued colors with pale yellow underparts.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga pensylvanica
- Size: 4.7 in (12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Chestnut-sided Warblers breed across eastern North America, from Canada to the northeastern United States. During migration, they can be observed in various eastern US states. Their wintering grounds span from Central America to northern South America.
These energetic warblers inhabit various wooded habitats, including deciduous forests, edges, and second-growth areas. They actively forage for insects and spiders on tree branches and in foliage.
Fun Fact: The song of the Chestnut-sided Warbler is a melodious series of notes that resembles the phrase “pleased, pleased, pleased to meet you.”
19. Nashville Warbler:
Nashville Warblers can be found in Quebec during the breeding season, making appearances on approximately 7% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in October.
Nashville Warblers exhibit a charming appearance with a gray head, greenish back, and yellow underparts. They have a distinct white eye-ring. Females share a similar pattern but with a yellow eye-ring.
- 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 United States and Canada, with some populations extending into northwestern United States and British Columbia. During migration, they can be observed in various states across the United States.
These delightful warblers favor scrubby habitats, deciduous forests, and low deciduous woodlands. They actively forage for insects, including caterpillars, among tree branches and foliage.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, Nashville Warblers do not breed or spend much time in Nashville, Tennessee. The name originates from the location where they were first discovered and described.
20. Black-and-white Warbler:
Black-and-white Warblers spend the breeding season in southern Quebec and appear on approximately 7% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in October.
Black-and-white Warblers showcase a distinctive plumage pattern, characterized by bold black-and-white striping on their entire body. Both males and females share the same striking appearance.
- Scientific Name: Mniotilta varia
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (8-15 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 in (18-22 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed across eastern North America, from Canada to the northeastern United States. During migration, they can be observed in various states across the United States.
These unique warblers prefer habitats such as mature forests, wooded swamps, and streamside areas. They actively forage for insects by hopping along tree trunks and branches.
Fun Fact: Black-and-white Warblers are known for their distinctive foraging behavior, as they explore tree trunks and branches in a similar fashion to a nuthatch, moving in a spiral pattern.
21. Tennessee Warbler:
Tennessee Warblers are spotted during the breeding season in Quebec, appearing on approximately 6% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in October.
Tennessee Warblers display a primarily olive-green plumage with a pale whitish belly and a yellow undertail. Males have a white eyestripe, while females have a yellow eyestripe.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis peregrina
- Size: 3.9-5.1 in (10-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (8-10 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in (17-20 cm)
Tennessee Warblers breed in northeastern United States and Canada. During migration, they can be observed in various states across the United States.
These active warblers inhabit dense shrubs, deciduous forests, and mixed woodlands. They forage for insects and caterpillars among tree branches and foliage.
Fun Fact: The Tennessee Warbler was named after the state of Tennessee, where it was first discovered during migration in the 19th century.
22. Northern Parula:
Northern Parulas are usually spotted in southern Quebec during the breeding season, making appearances on approximately 6% of summer checklists. They arrive in mid-April and depart in October.
Northern Parulas exhibit a striking combination of blueish-gray upperparts and vibrant yellow underparts. Males and females share similar coloration, with males featuring a chestnut band across the yellow throat and chest.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga americana
- Size: 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.4 oz (5-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 in (16-18 cm)
Northern Parulas breed in eastern United States and southeastern Canada before migrating to Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. Some populations may remain in southern Florida for the winter.
These lively warblers inhabit deciduous forests, swampy areas, and wooded streamsides. They actively forage for insects and spiders among tree foliage.
Fun Fact: Northern Parulas are known for their distinctive song, which has been described as a buzzy trill followed by a descending note.
23. Black-throated Blue Warbler:
Black-throated Blue Warblers spend the breeding season in southern Quebec, appearing on approximately 6% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in October.
Male Black-throated Blue Warblers showcase a stunning black and blue plumage on their upperparts, contrasting with a white belly. Females, on the other hand, display a more subdued olive-brown coloration.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga caerulescens
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.9 in (19-20 cm)
Black-throated Blue Warblers breed in northeastern United States and Canada. During migration, they can be observed in various states across the eastern United States before wintering in Central America and the Caribbean.
These striking warblers inhabit deciduous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects, spiders, and caterpillars among tree foliage.
Fun Fact: Male Black-throated Blue Warblers sing a buzzy and rising song that sounds like “beer, beer, beer, where, where, where.”
24. Northern Waterthrush:
Northern Waterthrushes can be found in Quebec from mid-April to mid-November, making appearances on approximately 5% of summer checklists.
Northern Waterthrushes are large warblers with a thrush-like appearance. They have brown heads with thick white eyebrows, dark brown backs, and heavily streaked white bellies extending from their throats to their rumps.
- Scientific Name: Parkesia noveboracensis
- Size: 5.75 inches (15 cm)
- Weight: 0.8 oz (23 g)
- Wingspan: 8.75 inches (22 cm)
Northern Waterthrushes breed in Canada, Alaska, and northeastern United States before migrating to Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Some populations may remain in Central and South America year-round.
These aquatic and terrestrial foragers can be found in dark, woody swamps, thickets, and bogs. They are capable of walking on shallow water while searching for water beetles, mosquitoes, slugs, crustaceans, and small fish. They also feed on caterpillars, moths, and ants found under leaves.
Fun Fact: Northern Waterthrushes have a distinctive habit of bobbing their tails while walking on the ground, giving them a unique appearance compared to other warblers.
25. Connecticut Warbler:
Connecticut Warblers are uncommon but possible sightings in southern Quebec during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 4% of summer checklists. They arrive in late May and depart in September.
Connecticut Warblers have a relatively plain appearance with olive-brown upperparts and pale yellow underparts. They have a gray hood and a yellow throat, which can be more visible in males during the breeding season.
- Scientific Name: Oporornis agilis
- Size: 5.1-5.9 in (13-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz (11-18 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.3 in (20-21 cm)
Connecticut Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska before migrating to Central and South America for the winter.
These secretive warblers inhabit dense thickets, shrubby areas, and damp woodlands. They primarily forage on or near the ground, feeding on insects, spiders, and snails.
Fun Fact: Connecticut Warblers are known for their elusive behavior, making them difficult to observe, even during the breeding season.
26. Blackburnian Warbler:
Blackburnian Warblers can be spotted in southern Quebec during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 4% of summer checklists. They arrive in late April and depart in September.
Male Blackburnian Warblers display a striking combination of vibrant orange throat and upper breast, contrasting with black and white plumage on their back and wings. Females have a yellowish throat and a more subdued coloration overall.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga fusca
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 in (19-21 cm)
Blackburnian Warblers breed across northeastern United States and Canada before migrating to northern South America for the winter.
These canopy dwellers can be found in coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects, spiders, and caterpillars among tree foliage.
Fun Fact: Blackburnian Warblers have a high-pitched and buzzy song, often described as “zeee-zeee-zo-zo-zo.”
27. Mourning Warbler:
Mourning Warblers are occasional but possible sightings in southern Quebec during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 4% of summer checklists. They arrive in late May and depart in September.
Mourning Warblers have an understated but elegant appearance with a grayish head, olive-green back, and yellow underparts. Males have a black patch on their chest that extends to their throat.
- Scientific Name: Geothlypis philadelphia
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-8.3 in (18-21 cm)
Mourning Warblers breed across northeastern United States and Canada before migrating to Central and northern South America for the winter.
These ground-dwelling warblers can be found in dense thickets, shrubby areas, and damp woodlands. They primarily forage on or near the ground, feeding on insects, spiders, and berries.
Fun Fact: Mourning Warblers get their name from their somber and mournful song, often described as a series of low, whistling notes.