This comprehensive manual provides assistance in recognizing and distinguishing the various warbler species that frequently inhabit the state of New Mexico. It includes detailed photo identification, descriptions, enchanting audio recordings of their melodic tunes, and intriguing tidbits, among other valuable information.
Warblers, these diminutive avian creatures, embark on remarkable migratory journeys, spanning vast distances from as far as South America to their breeding grounds as distant as Canada. These active and vibrant birds gracefully navigate from one seasonal habitat to another, showcasing a kaleidoscope of yellow and green hues and serenading the air with a mesmerizing array of melodies.
Wood-warblers, commonly known as North American warblers, predominantly inhabit woodland and forested areas. Engaging in the arduous task of spotting these elusive birds may lead to an affliction known as warbler neck, characterized by aching stiffness and tingling sensations in the neck resulting from prolonged upward gazes through binoculars into the treetops.
While warblers primarily subsist on insects, they occasionally visit backyard feeders in search of seeds or mealworms. Discovering the assortment of bird species that regularly visit New Mexico and obtaining a complimentary identification chart can enhance your avian exploration.
This guide specifically aids in identifying the types of warblers commonly sighted in New Mexico, using reliable information sourced from avibase and data collected by dedicated birdwatchers on ebird. It offers insights into the optimal timing for observing these avian marvels.
For each warbler species featured in this guide, you can listen to their melodic compositions and access a guide detailing their distinctive song variations. Additionally, you can consult a separate guide specifically designed to aid in recognizing 13 easily distinguishable warbler songs.
Seasonal Distribution of Warblers in New Mexico:
Warblers present in New Mexico throughout the year: Yellow-rumped Warbler
Warblers found in New Mexico during the summer: Yellow Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Common Yellowthroat, MacGillivray’s Warbler, Virginia’s Warbler, Lucy’s Warbler, Grace’s Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Red-faced Warbler
Warblers passing through New Mexico during migration: Wilson’s Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Townsend’s Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Nashville Warbler, American Redstart, Black-and-white Warbler, Northern Parula, Hooded Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Ovenbird, Hermit Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler
A Total of 24 Warbler Species in New Mexico:
1. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers can be observed throughout the year in New Mexico, although their numbers tend to increase during the migratory periods from April to May and September to October.
Distinguished by their gray plumage with vibrant flashes of yellow on the face, sides, and rump, as well as white wing patches, these warblers exhibit sexual dimorphism. Female individuals may display a slightly browner coloration, while winter birds adopt a paler brown hue with vivid yellow rumps and sides that transition back to yellow and gray during spring.
Two subspecies exist: the Myrtle Warbler, prevalent in the eastern United States and boreal forests of Canada, lacking a yellow throat, and the Audubon’s Warbler of the western regions, featuring additional white in their wings.
- Setophaga coronata
- Length: 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, as well as
parts of the Rockies and the Appalachian mountains. During migration, they pass through the Midwest before wintering in southern and southwestern states of the US, along the Pacific Coast, and venturing into Mexico and Central America.
Coniferous forests, particularly during the breeding season, serve as the primary habitat for Yellow-rumped Warblers. In winter, they seek out open areas with fruit-bearing shrubs. Their diet primarily consists of insects during summer and migration, while shifting towards a fruit-based diet, including bayberries and wax myrtles, during winter.
Yellow-rumped Warbler Song:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602699. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
Nests constructed by female Yellow-rumped Warblers in conifer trees comprise twigs, pine needles, and grass, lined with soft grass, moss, and hair. They lay up to six eggs, which take approximately two weeks to hatch, followed by an additional two weeks before the young leave the nest.
To attract Yellow-rumped Warblers to your backyard, consider offering sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: During the winter, Yellow-rumped Warblers form expansive flocks numbering in the thousands, displaying territorial aggression towards other species that venture too close.
2. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers are primarily observed passing through New Mexico during their migratory periods from April to May and August to October. Approximately 40% of checklists submitted by birdwatchers during these periods include sightings of this species.
Males of Wilson’s Warblers feature a large black cap atop their tiny, round, yellow bodies, while females possess a smaller black cap.
- Cardellina pusilla
- Length: 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)
Breeding predominantly in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern US states, Wilson’s Warblers embark on migration, traversing all US states while en route to their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.
Streams within dense thickets and forest edges serve as prime locations to spot Wilson’s Warblers as they forage for insects, larvae, and spiders.
Wilson’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Thomas G. Graves, XC561438. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/561438.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers, skillfully concealed on or near the ground close to trees or shrubs, are constructed from leaves, sedges, and a variety of plant materials woven into cup-shaped structures. These nests often fall prey to Brown-headed Cowbirds, which lay their eggs within them, subsequently leaving the surrogate warbler parents to raise their offspring.
Around five eggs are laid by females, requiring approximately eleven days to hatch, followed by another ten days before the young leave the nest.
To attract Wilson’s Warblers to your backyard, provide native trees and shrubs, as they do not typically visit feeders.
Fun Fact: Wilson’s Warblers engage in a fascinating behavior to divert potential nest predators. They feign a broken wing, leading the predator away before swiftly taking flight to safety.
3. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers grace the skies of New Mexico from mid-March to October, making appearances on approximately 10% of checklists during the summer.
Resplendent in their bright yellow plumage with a tinge of green on their backs, male Yellow Warblers sport chestnut streaks on their breasts. Females and juveniles possess less vibrant coloring and lack the distinct streaking.
- Setophaga petechia
- Length: 4.7-5.1in (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, breeding in Canada and the majority of the United States (excluding the southeastern states) before migrating to Central and South America for winter. During migration, they can also be spotted in the southeastern states of the US.
Ideal habitats for Yellow Warblers include streamside areas, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, where they diligently search for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Yellow Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC662546. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/662546.
Nests of Yellow Warblers are built within small trees or shrubs, expertly woven from bark, grass, and plant material and secured with spider webs to form a cup-shaped structure. The interior is lined with softer materials like hair, feathers, and plant down.
Females lay up to seven eggs, requiring approximately twelve days to hatch, followed by an additional ten days before the young fledge.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants that bear berries. Additionally, cultivate native plants that naturally attract insects without the use of pesticides or excessive tidiness. Consider installing birdbaths with fountains near secluded plantings to provide protective cover.
Fun Fact: Yellow Warblers often fall victim to the parasitic behavior of Cowbirds, who lay their eggs in the warblers’ nests. In response, Yellow Warblers build new nests on top of the old ones, repeating this process up to six times.
4. Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chats spend their summers in New Mexico, with sightings primarily occurring from mid-April to October. Approximately 12% of checklists during this period include observations of these captivating birds.
Yellow-breasted Chats exhibit vibrant yellow breasts and sport long tails. Their olive-gray backs complement their gray heads, adorned with white eye and chin markings. The lower portions of their bellies showcase a snowy white coloration.
- Icteria virens
- Length: 7.1 in (18 cm)
- Weight: 0.8-1.1 oz (23-31 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8 in (25 cm)
These warblers breed across the majority of US states, extending slightly into southern Canada. During winter, they migrate to Central America and coastal regions of Mexico.
Blackberry bushes, fields, and forest edges serve as prime habitats for the Yellow-breasted Chat, where they indulge in a diet comprising spiders, insects, and berries.
Yellow-breasted Chat Song:
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC512276. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/512276.
Nests of Yellow-breasted Chats remain concealed within shrubs, constructed from grass, leaves, and various plant materials meticulously woven into a cup-shaped structure. Brown-headed Cowbirds frequently exploit these nests by laying their eggs, leaving the host warblers to care for the impostor offspring.
Females lay up to six eggs, requiring approximately eleven days to hatch, followed by an additional ten days before the young fledge.
Fun Fact: Male Yellow-breasted Chats engage in territorial disputes, grappling with their feet while displaying a captivating flight pattern and emitting melodious songs, ultimately diverting attention from their nests before taking flight.
5. Common Yellowthroat
Common Yellowthroats can be sighted in New Mexico primarily during the breeding season, spanning from April to October. These enchanting birds feature on approximately 8% of summer checklists.
Dressed in a combination of brownish hues on their backs and vibrant yellow underparts, Common Yellowthroats possess long tails. The males don striking black masks across their faces. The intensity of yellow coloration may vary geographically, with individuals exhibiting more olive tones in certain regions.
- Geothlypis trichas
- Length: 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 the majority of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain year-round along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest, while others migrate south for the winter.
Common Yellowthroats thrive in marshy or wetland areas, often found within dense vegetation and tangled thickets.
Common Yellowthroat Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC629250. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Nests of Common Yellowthroats are built by females in marshy areas, typically supported by reeds. Constructed from grass, sedges, and a variety of plant materials, the nests form cup-shaped structures. Females lay up to six eggs, requiring approximately twelve days to hatch, followed by a similar period for the young to fledge.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, dense vegetation and native plants that attract insects prove enticing.
Fun Fact: The black mask adorning the faces of male Common Yellowthroats serves as a visual cue to other males, indicating their gender and often triggering aggressive responses. Interestingly, they do not exhibit such aggression when the mask is absent in decoy birds.
6. Orange-crowned Warbler
Although sightings of Orange-crowned Warblers have been recorded year-round, their presence is more prominent in New Mexico during the fall migration from August to October.
These warblers may not possess the dazzling plumage of their counterparts, exhibiting a yellow-olive coloring that leans more toward yellow along the Pacific Coast. Their distinctive orange crown is rarely visible.
- Leiothlypis celata
- Length: 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, embarking on migratory journeys along the Pacific, East and Gulf Coasts, as well as Mexico. While migrating, they can be observed in all US states except the northeastern region.
Shrubs and low-lying vegetation serve as favored habitats for Orange-crowned Warblers, although they primarily breed in open woodlands. Their diet consists predominantly of spiders and insects, including caterpillars and flies. They also readily consume fruit, berries, and seeds, often visiting backyard feeders.
Orange-crowned Warbler Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC671865. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/671865.
Nests of Orange-crowned Warblers are typically positioned near or on the ground, composed of dead leaves, twigs, and stems, and lined with soft grass and animal hair. Females lay up to six eggs.
To attract Orange-crowned Warblers to your yard, provide suet, peanut butter, or hummingbird feeders filled with sugar water nectar.
Fun Fact: Orange-crowned Warblers display a unique behavior of drinking sap from the wells created by sapsuckers and woodpeckers.
7. MacGillivray’s Warbler
MacGillivray’s Warblers make their presence known in New Mexico during their migration periods in May and September, while some individuals also spend the breeding season in the region. They can be observed on approximately 5% of summer checklists and up to 16% of checklists during migration.
These warblers possess a compact, slightly stocky build. Male MacGillivray’s Warblers feature slate gray heads, black bands across their eyes, and grayish spots that darken to black from beneath the bill to the throat. Females showcase a light-gray head and throat without black markings. Both genders exhibit olive-gray backs, yellow bellies, and crescent-shaped white eyerings.
- Geothlypis tolmiei
- Length: 5.25 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 8.25 inches (21 cm)
Breeding primarily in northwestern US states and western Canada, MacGillivray’s Warblers undertake a migration journey to Mexico and Central America.
These warblers can be found in areas with dense shrubbery or vegetation. They frequent shady thickets near streams, logged forests with fallen trees, or burned areas with standing dead trees.
MacGillivray’s Warblers forage on the ground, hopping or flying low as they search for insects like beetles and caterpillars.
MacGillivray’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Bobby Wilcox, XC667171. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/667171.
Nests of MacGillivray’s Warblers are well-concealed in thick shrubs, typically positioned one to five feet above the ground. Upright forks of scrub oaks or fir saplings serve as their preferred nesting sites. Some nests may even be placed on the ground amidst tall weeds and ferns.
The nests are constructed using weed stems, barks, and dry grass, while the interior is lined with softer materials such as fur and feathers. Females lay around three to six eggs, and the incubation period lasts approximately eleven days.
To attract MacGillivray’s Warblers to your backyard, provide a triangular nest box, as studies conducted by the Tucson Audubon Society indicate that this specific design is favored by these warblers.
Fun Fact: The naming of MacGillivray’s Warblers stems from a compromise. The species was initially named after Dr. W. T. Tolmie by John Kirk Townsend. However, it was later renamed after Dr. W. MacGillivray, a friend of John James Audubon. The scientific name “tolmiei” was chosen as a compromise.
8. Virginia’s Warbler
Virginia’s Warblers find their summer abode in New Mexico, particularly in the southern region, from March to October. They appear on approximately 5% of summer checklists.
Despite their small and inconspicuous nature, Virginia’s Warblers possess striking colors. Both males and females exhibit gray heads, backs, and bellies. Their heads boast a reddish patch on the crown. Their throats, chests, and rumps are yellow, while their wings and tails are black.
- Leiothlypis virginiae
- Length: 4.5-4.75 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.25-7.75 inches (18-20 cm)
Virginia’s Warblers are primarily found in the southwestern United States and are not present in Virginia, despite their name being attributed to the person who discovered them, Virginia Anderson.
These warblers inhabit pinyon-juniper brushlands, pine and oak woodlands, and woodlands near streams. In winter, they seek shelter among dry scrub areas.
Due to their small size, observing their diet is challenging. However, they have been observed hopping among tree branches at mid-levels, likely foraging on insects like other warblers.
Virginia’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Ned Bohman, XC658017. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/658017.
Nests of Virginia’s Warblers are well-hidden among dead leaves at the base of shrubs or trees. They are constructed using coarse grass, bark strips, roots, and moss. Females lay three to five eggs, incubating them alone for approximately eleven days.
To attract Virginia’s Warblers to your backyard, consider providing nest boxes. Research conducted by the Tucson Audubon Society suggests that Virginia’s Warblers frequently select triangular nest boxes over other types.
Fun Fact: Virginia’s Warblers are known for their characteristic tail wagging behavior while perched on branches of pine and oak trees.
9. Lucy’s Warbler
Lucy’s Warblers grace New Mexico with their presence during the breeding season, spanning from March to October. They are recorded on approximately 3% of summer checklists.
These small, unassuming birds hold the distinction of being the only warblers that nest in the desert regions of the Southwest. Adult Lucy’s Warblers feature gray heads, white eyerings, reddish patches on their crowns and rumps, and whitish throats, breasts, and bellies. Juveniles exhibit similar coloring but lack the cinnamon-colored patch on the head.
- Leiothlypis luciae
- Length: 4.25 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.2 oz (6 g)
- Wingspan: 7 inches (18 cm)
Lucy’s Warblers breed in the southwestern United States before embarking on a migration journey to Mexico and Central America.
These warblers can be found in shrubby canyon areas within deserts, particularly around mesquite shrubs, tamarisk, acacia, and willows. In addition, they frequent stream beds and, at higher elevations, forests with ash, walnut, and oak trees.
Lucy’s Warblers spend their time foraging among the branches of mesquite trees and other bushes, hunting for caterpillars, beetles, and other insects.
Lucy’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Frank Lambert, XC408586. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/408586.
Nests of Lucy’s Warblers are typically located in pine trees. They are built using leaves, stems, cocoon materials, fur, and feathers, ensuring a soft and comfortable interior. The nests are usually cradled on high tree branches. Females lay three to five eggs, and the incubation period lasts around ten to twelve days.
To attract Lucy’s Warblers to your backyard, provide a nest box. Research conducted by the Tucson Audubon Society suggests that these warblers often show a preference for triangular nest boxes.
Fun Fact: Lucy’s Warblers are known for their habit of singing while perched on mesquite branches, where they also forage for food.
10. Grace’s Warbler
Grace’s Warblers spend their breeding season in New Mexico and appear on approximately 4% of summer checklists. They are predominantly observed from April to September.
Adult Grace’s Warblers exhibit similar appearances, boasting dark gray crowns and a white patch at the end of their yellow eyebrows, extending a short distance behind the eyes. Their backs are also dark gray, while their throats, breasts, and bellies shine with bright yellow hues. Two prominent white wing bars add a distinctive touch to their appearance.
- Setophaga graciae
- Length: 4.75 inches (12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.75 inches (20 cm)
Grace’s Warblers migrate to breed in the southwestern United States, while spending the entire year in Mexico and Central America.
These warblers favor habitats with mature coniferous trees, particularly pine, oak, and spruce-fir forests.
Grace’s Warblers tend to remain at the treetops, where they hop between branches or conceal themselves amidst pine needles. From there, they catch insects and forage among the leaves, seeking out hidden insects.
Grace’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC451084. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/451084.
Nests of Grace’s Warblers are also located within pine trees. They are constructed using leaves, stems, and cocoon materials, with fur and feathers added for a soft interior. The nests are typically positioned on high branches. Females lay three to five eggs, which they incubate for eleven to twelve days.
To attract Grace’s Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable nesting habitats such as mature coniferous trees.
Fun Fact: Grace’s Warblers were named after Grace Darling Coues, the sister of ornithologist Elliott Coues.
11. Black-throated Gray Warbler
Black-throated Gray Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They are present on approximately 3% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a striking appearance, with black throats and white undersides. Their heads and backs are predominantly gray, while their wings showcase black and white patterns. Both males and females possess similar plumage.
- Setophaga nigrescens
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (8 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Black-throated Gray Warblers breed in mountainous regions of the western United States and parts of Canada before embarking on migratory journeys.
You can find Black-throated Gray Warblers in mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, particularly favoring areas with oak and pinyon-juniper woodlands.
These warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by gleaning foliage and branches.
Black-throated Gray Warbler Song:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC618322. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/618322.
Nests of Black-throated Gray Warblers are usually built in the lower branches of trees, hidden among vegetation. They construct cup-shaped nests using bark, grass, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require around 12 days of incubation before hatching.
Attract Black-throated Gray Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of trees and shrubs for cover and foraging opportunities.
Fun Fact: Male Black-throated Gray Warblers engage in “whisper song” displays during courtship, where they sing at a much lower volume compared to their usual songs.
12. Red-faced Warbler
Red-faced Warblers are mainly observed in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from May to June and from August to September. They appear on approximately 3% of checklists during migration.
These warblers display vibrant colors, with red faces, crowns, and throats, complemented by gray bodies and black wings. Females exhibit slightly duller plumage.
- Cardellina rubrifrons
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Red-faced Warblers breed in the mountainous regions of the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico before embarking on migratory journeys.
Their preferred habitats include pine and fir forests, as well as mountain canyons with oak and aspen trees.
Red-faced Warblers primarily feed on insects, foraging among branches and foliage, and occasionally catching insects mid-air.
Red-faced Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC418750. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/418750.
Nests of Red-faced Warblers are built close to the ground, hidden within shrubs or small trees. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, moss, and bark, often lined with feathers and hair. Females lay up to four eggs, which require approximately 12 days of incubation.
Attract Red-faced Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of trees and shrubs, along with a reliable source of water.
Fun Fact: Red-faced Warblers are known for their unique feeding behavior called “wing-flicking,” where they spread and close their wings rapidly while foraging, possibly as a way to flush out insects.
13. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They are present on approximately 5% of checklists during migration.
These warblers display vibrant yellow plumage, with olive-gray backs and black caps on the males. Females exhibit slightly duller colors.
- Cardellina pusilla
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Wilson’s Warblers breed in northern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and forest edges.
Wilson’s Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by gleaning foliage and hopping along branches.
Wilson’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC561438. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/561438.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within shrubs or thick vegetation. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, bark, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Wilson’s Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of shrubs, trees, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Male Wilson’s Warblers engage in “tail-wagging” displays during courtship, where they flick their tails from side to side while singing to attract females.
14. Orange-crowned Warbler
Orange-crowned Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 4% of checklists during migration.
These warblers feature olive-green plumage, with hints of yellow and subtle orange crowns, which are often difficult to see.
- Leiothlypis celata
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (8 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Orange-crowned Warblers breed in western parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys across various regions.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including shrubby areas, thickets, and woodlands near water sources.
Orange-crowned Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by gleaning foliage and searching for prey among branches.
Orange-crowned Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC671865. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/671865.
Nests of Orange-crowned Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within shrubs or thick vegetation. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, bark, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, which require approximately 11-13 days of incubation.
Attract Orange-crowned Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of shrubs, trees, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Orange-crowned Warblers are often considered “mystery warblers” due to their secretive behavior and subtle plumage, making them challenging to identify.
15. Townsend’s Warbler
Townsend’s Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They are present on approximately 5% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit vibrant yellow plumage, with black wings featuring white spots. Males have black caps and throats, while females
have olive-colored caps.
- Setophaga townsendi
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (12 g)
- Wingspan: 8 inches (20 cm)
Townsend’s Warblers breed in western parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys across various regions.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including coniferous forests, mixed woodlands, and mountainous areas.
Townsend’s Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by gleaning foliage and actively searching for prey among branches.
Townsend’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC618322. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/618322.
Nests of Townsend’s Warblers are typically located in coniferous trees, hidden among dense foliage. They construct cup-shaped nests using moss, bark, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 11-12 days of incubation.
Attract Townsend’s Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of coniferous trees, shrubs, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Townsend’s Warblers have a unique feeding behavior known as “wing-drooping,” where they droop their wings while foraging among foliage, possibly to mimic falling leaves and avoid attracting predators.
16. Northern Waterthrush
Northern Waterthrushes can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 4% of checklists during migration.
These warblers feature streaked brownish plumage on their backs and wings, with white undersides and bold white stripes above their eyes.
- Parkesia noveboracensis
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.5 oz (15 g)
- Wingspan: 8.5 inches (22 cm)
Northern Waterthrushes breed in northern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They prefer habitats near water sources, including swamps, marshes, and stream edges, where dense vegetation provides cover.
Northern Waterthrushes primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates, foraging along the ground and probing muddy areas for prey.
Northern Waterthrush Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC425155. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/425155.
Nests of Northern Waterthrushes are typically located on the ground in dense vegetation or near water sources. They construct cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and moss, lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Northern Waterthrushes to your backyard by providing water sources, such as birdbaths or shallow ponds, surrounded by dense vegetation.
Fun Fact: Northern Waterthrushes have a distinctive “tail-wagging” behavior while foraging, which helps flush out insects from the ground and foliage.
17. Nashville Warbler
Nashville Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 6% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit bright yellow plumage, with olive-green backs and a gray hood extending to the upper chest. They have a distinctive white eye ring.
- Leiothlypis ruficapilla
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed in northern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including mixed woodlands, deciduous forests, and shrubby areas.
Nashville Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and flies, which they capture by gleaning foliage and hopping along branches.
Nashville Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC398678. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/398678.
Nests of Nashville Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within shrubs or thick vegetation. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, bark, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Nashville Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of shrubs, trees, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Nashville Warblers were named after Nashville, Tennessee, where the species was first observed by naturalist Alexander Wilson in the early 19th century.
18. American Redstart
American Redstarts can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They are present on approximately 7% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit striking black and orange plumage. Adult males have black bodies with bright orange patches on their wings, tail, and sides, while females and young males have gray and yellow plumage.
- Setophaga ruticilla
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
American Redstarts breed in northern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, riparian areas, and shrubby habitats near water sources.
American Redstarts primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, flies, and spiders, which they capture by actively searching foliage and making quick aerial pursuits.
American Redstart Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC459619. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/459619.
Nests of American Redstarts are typically located in shrubs or small trees, hidden within dense foliage. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, bark, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract American Redstarts to your backyard by providing a mix of trees, shrubs, and water sources.
Fun Fact: American Redstarts are known for their unique foraging behavior called “flash-and-glide,” where they flick their wings and fan their tails to flush out insects from foliage, then catch them in mid-air.
19. Black-and-white Warbler
Black-and-white Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 5% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit distinctive black and white striped plumage, resembling a tiny “zebra.” They have a slender, slightly downcurved bill.
- Mniotilta varia
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (8 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed in eastern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, woodlands, and shaded areas with dense undergrowth.
Black-and-white Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by actively searching tree trunks and branches, often moving in a distinctive creeping manner.
Black-and-white Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC619256. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/619256.
Nests of Black-and-white Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within leaf litter or tree cavities. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, moss, and bark, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Black-and-white Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of trees with rough bark, deadwood, and leaf litter.
Fun Fact: Black-and-white Warblers are unique among warblers in their foraging behavior, as they primarily search for insects on tree trunks and branches rather than in foliage.
20. Northern Parula
Northern Parulas can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 4% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a combination of blue, yellow, and green plumage. Adult males have bluish-gray backs with a greenish patch on the back of their necks, yellow throats, and bold black and chestnut markings on their breasts.
- Setophaga americana
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Northern Parulas breed in eastern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed woodlands, swamps, and forested areas near water sources.
Northern Parulas primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, spiders, and small flies, which they capture by actively foraging among foliage and tree canopies.
Northern Parula Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC441348. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/441348.
Nests of Northern Parulas are typically located in tree cavities or hanging moss, suspended from branches. They construct small, cup-shaped nests using moss, plant fibers, and spiderwebs, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 12-13 days of incubation.
Attract Northern Parulas to your backyard by providing a mix of trees, shrubs, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Northern Parulas are known for their unique “insect-pull” foraging technique, where they grab insects in mid-air by quickly pulling them off leaves or branches.
21. Hooded Warbler
Hooded Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 3% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a striking combination
of bright yellow plumage and a black hood extending from their throat to the upper chest. The males have a distinctive white eyering.
- Setophaga citrina
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Hooded Warblers breed in eastern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, thickets, and shrubby areas near water sources.
Hooded Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by actively searching foliage and making short flights to catch prey.
Hooded Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC401549. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/401549.
Nests of Hooded Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within dense vegetation or shrubs. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, leaves, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to four eggs, which require approximately 12-13 days of incubation.
Attract Hooded Warblers to your backyard by providing dense shrubby areas, water sources, and a mix of trees and understory plants.
Fun Fact: Hooded Warblers are known for their unique visual displays during courtship, where males flare their bright yellow hoods to attract females.
22. Chestnut-sided Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 4% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a striking combination of yellow, black, and white plumage. Males have yellow crowns, white undersides with black streaks, and bold chestnut-colored patches on their sides.
- Setophaga pensylvanica
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Chestnut-sided Warblers breed in eastern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, shrubby areas, and edges of wetlands.
Chestnut-sided Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and flies, which they capture by actively foraging among foliage and making short aerial pursuits.
Chestnut-sided Warbler Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC400974. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/400974.
Nests of Chestnut-sided Warblers are typically located close to the ground, hidden within dense vegetation or shrubs. They construct cup-shaped nests using grass, leaves, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Chestnut-sided Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of trees, shrubs, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Chestnut-sided Warblers are known for their distinctive “pleased, pleased, pleased to meet cha” song, which helps in their identification.
23. Ovenbird
Ovenbirds can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 5% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a plain, olive-brown plumage with a distinctive striped crown, resembling an “oven.” They have a rounded body shape and a relatively long tail.
- Seiurus aurocapilla
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6 oz (17 g)
- Wingspan: 8 inches (20 cm)
Ovenbirds breed in eastern parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Central and South America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, thickets, and understory vegetation.
Ovenbirds primarily feed on insects, including beetles, ants, and caterpillars, which they capture by scratching and pecking among leaf litter and soil.
Ovenbird Song:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC401343. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/401343.
Nests of Ovenbirds are typically located on the ground, hidden within leaf litter or at the base of vegetation. They construct dome-shaped nests with a side entrance using leaves, twigs, and grass, lined with softer materials like moss and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 12-14 days of incubation.
Attract Ovenbirds to your backyard by providing dense leaf litter and understory vegetation.
Fun Fact: Ovenbirds are named for the shape of their nest, which resembles an old-fashioned outdoor oven or Dutch oven.
24. Hermit Warbler
Hermit Warblers can be spotted in New Mexico during migration periods, typically from April to May and from August to September. They appear on approximately 3% of checklists during migration.
These warblers exhibit a combination of bright yellow and gray plumage. Males have yellow heads, throats, and upper chests, with a black mask extending from their eyes to their sides.
- Setophaga occidentalis
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Hermit Warblers breed in western parts of the United States and Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to Mexico and Central America.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, including coniferous forests, mixed woodlands, and mountainous areas.
Hermit Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which they capture by actively foraging among foliage and tree canopies.
Hermit Warbler Song:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC428555. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/428555.
Nests of Hermit Warblers are typically located high in coniferous trees, hidden within dense foliage. They construct cup-shaped nests using twigs, grass, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, which require approximately 10-12 days of incubation.
Attract Hermit Warblers to your backyard by providing a mix of coniferous trees, shrubs, and water sources.
Fun Fact: Hermit Warblers are known for their preference for tall coniferous forests and their distinctive buzzy song, which is often described as sounding like “I’m so laaaaazyyyy.”
A Guide to the Melodies of Warbler Birds
The harmonies of warblers often precede their appearance, and if you acquaint yourself with a handful of their tunes, it becomes simpler to recognize the avian creature in sight. Fortunately, certain warbler songs possess more distinctive qualities than others.
The songs of warblers can be described as either buzzy, clear, or trilling, exhibiting variations in pitch, and comprising an assortment of sounds. A buzzy note resonates like that of an insect, while a clear note mimics a whistle, and a trill is so rapid that individual notes become imperceptible.
Within this guide, you can acquaint yourself with the songs of all the warblers. Additionally, you may refer to this comprehensive manual featuring 13 easily recognizable warbler songs for assistance.
Warblers with Buzzy Songs:
– The song of the Black-throated Blue Warbler rises with a buzzy quality.
– Prairie Warblers also produce rising, buzzy songs.
– Black-throated Green Warblers emit buzzy songs with a few clear notes in the middle.
– Blackpoll Warblers’ songs are clear, steady, and resemble the buzz of an insect.
– Prairie Warblers’ songs are buzzy and rise in pitch.
– The Palm Warbler’s song is distinctly buzzy.
Warblers with Songs Containing Clear Notes:
– The song of the Common Yellowthroat consists of a series of rising and falling notes, which are repeated.
– Ovenbirds sing a sequence of notes that ascend and descend.
– Hooded Warblers also possess songs with clear notes.
– The song of Chestnut-sided Warblers comprises a series of clear descending notes that accelerate towards the end.
– Yellow-rumped Warblers produce a series of clear notes that gradually fade out.
– The song of Yellow Warblers quickens in tempo.
– Northern Parulas have a rising trill that concludes with a distinct note, almost like a conclusive punctuation mark.
– Wilson’s Warblers perform a series of clear descending notes that accelerate.
A Glimpse into the Presence of Warblers in New Mexico during Summer and Winter
Checklists serve as excellent resources for determining the frequency of bird sightings in your state. These lists showcase the warblers most commonly observed during summer and winter in New Mexico, as recorded on ebird checklists.
Summer Warblers in New Mexico:
– Yellow-rumped Warbler: 14.9%
– Yellow-breasted Chat: 12.7%
– Yellow Warbler: 10.1%
– Common Yellowthroat: 8.4%
– Wilson’s Warbler: 6.5%
– MacGillivray’s Warbler: 5.5%
– Virginia’s Warbler: 5.1%
– Grace’s Warbler: 4.0%
– Orange-crowned Warbler: 3.4%
– Lucy’s Warbler: 3.3%
– Black-throated Gray Warbler: 2.7%
– Red-faced Warbler: 0.9%
– Northern Waterthrush: 0.8%
– American Redstart: 0.4%
– Townsend’s Warbler: 0.3%
– Hooded Warbler: 0.3%
– Nashville Warbler: 0.2%
– Black-and-white Warbler: 0.2%
– Northern Parula: 0.2%
– Ovenbird: 0.1%
– Chestnut-sided Warbler: 0.1%
– Hermit Warbler: <0.1%
– Prothonotary Warbler: <0.1%
– Black-throated Blue Warbler: <0.1%
Winter Warblers in New Mexico:
– Yellow-rumped Warbler: 14.6%
– Orange-crowned Warbler: 0.5%
– Common Yellowthroat: 0.2%
– Northern Parula: <0.1%
– Wilson’s Warbler: <0.1%
– Black-throated Gray Warbler: <0.1%
– Townsend’s Warbler: <0.1%
– Black-and-white Warbler: <0.1%
– Black-throated Blue Warbler: <0.1%
– American Redstart: <0.1%
– Ovenbird: <0.1%
– Northern Waterthrush: <0.1%
– Prothonotary Warbler: <0.1%
– Lucy’s Warbler: <0.1%
– Nashville Warbler: <0.1%
– Chestnut-sided Warbler: <0.1%
Enticing Warblers to Visit Your Backyard
While warblers are not as frequent visitors to backyard feeders as other songbirds, there are methods you can employ to attract these melodious avian creatures to your yard:
– If your yard is sufficiently spacious, provide trees.
– Maintain brush piles and avoid excessive tidiness to create a suitable habitat for insects.
– Refrain from using pesticides or herbicides to ensure the availability of insects while preventing bird consumption.
– Offer a clean water source.
– Provide mealworms, preferably live ones, but dried alternatives can suffice.
– Install bird feeders containing sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, and suet.