This manual will assist you in identifying the various warbler species commonly found in Massachusetts. It includes detailed descriptions, photo identification, captivating facts, and even audio recordings of their melodious songs.
Warblers, those petite songbirds that migrate great distances, embarking on journeys from as far as South America to breeding grounds as remote as Canada. These lively creatures, adorned in vibrant shades of yellow and green, flit through the air, serenading us with a splendid medley of enchanting melodies.
Native to North America, these charming birds, often referred to as wood-warblers, predominantly inhabit wooded areas and forests. Beware of “warbler neck,” a stiff and tingling sensation in your neck that arises from gazing upwards into the treetops with binoculars, attempting to spot these elusive creatures.
While warblers primarily sustain themselves on a diet of insects, they occasionally pay visits to backyard feeders, enticed by the allure of seeds or mealworms. Discover the other bird species that regularly grace Massachusetts and obtain a complimentary identification chart.
This comprehensive guide serves as your companion for identifying the commonly sighted warbler species in Massachusetts. It draws information from reliable sources like avibase and utilizes data collected by avid bird watchers on ebird to provide accurate details regarding the birds’ sightings.
For each warbler featured in this guide, you can listen to their melodious tunes and explore a comprehensive catalog of their distinct song variations. Additionally, you can refer to a separate guide showcasing 13 easily recognizable warbler songs to aid you in identifying these delightful creatures by sound alone.
Warblers Present in Massachusetts Throughout the Seasons:
Summer Warblers in Massachusetts: Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Pine Warbler, Ovenbird, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Black-throated Green Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Blue-winged Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Worm-eating Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler.
Winter Warblers in Massachusetts: Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Yellow-throated Warbler.
Migratory Warblers in Massachusetts: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Palm Warbler, Northern Parula, Blackpoll Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Canada Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Mourning Warbler, Connecticut Warbler, Kentucky Warbler.
A Whopping 35 Warbler Species Reside in Massachusetts:
1. Common Yellowthroat
The Common Yellowthroat, frequently observed from May to November, takes up residence in Massachusetts during the breeding season. This species graces around 33% of summer checklists submitted by bird enthusiasts in the state.
These small songbirds sport a brownish hue on their backs, complemented by a bright yellow underbelly and elongated tails. Male Common Yellowthroats don a striking black mask across their faces. The intensity of their yellow plumage varies geographically, sometimes leaning towards olive shades.
Geothlypis trichas
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (9-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 inches (15-19 cm)
Common Yellowthroats embark on a summer journey, breeding across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain near the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest throughout the year, while others migrate south for the winter.
You’ll often spot these charming birds in marshy areas, wetlands, and tangled vegetation of brushy fields.
Song of the Common Yellowthroat:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC629250. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Female Common Yellowthroats construct nests near the ground within marshy regions, expertly supported by reeds. These nests consist of grass and sedges woven into a leaf and grass platform. Each clutch comprises up to six eggs, which hatch in approximately twelve days. The young ones remain in the nest for an equivalent period before venturing out into the world.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to your spacious backyard, cultivate dense vegetation and native plants that entice insects.
Fascinating Fact: The black mask sported by male Common Yellowthroats serves as a signal to courting males. They fiercely defend their territory against decoy birds with masks but exhibit no aggression toward maskless birds.
2. Yellow-rumped Warbler
While Yellow-rumped Warblers occasionally grace Massachusetts year-round, their presence primarily coincides with migration from April to May and September to November. Their appearance on checklists during migration ranges from 39% to 17%.
Yellow-rumped Warblers exhibit a grayish hue with dashes of yellow on their face, sides, and rump, accompanied by white wings. Females possess a slightly brownish tint, and their winter plumage showcases paler shades of brown, accented by bright yellow rumps and sides, which gradually transition to yellow and gray come spring.
Two subspecies exist: the Myrtle Warbler, found in the eastern US and boreal forests of Canada, lacking a yellow throat, and the Audubon’s Warbler from the western US, distinguished by additional white in its wings.
Setophaga coronata
Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (12-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 inches (19-23 cm)
Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian mountains. During migration, they traverse the Midwest before wintering in southern and southwestern US states, along the Pacific Coast, and further south into Mexico and Central America.
You can spot these warblers in coniferous forests, especially during the breeding season. In winter, they frequent open areas with fruit-bearing shrubs. Their diet primarily consists of insects during summer and migration, transitioning to a fruit-heavy menu, including bayberries and wax myrtles, during winter.
Song of the Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602699. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
Female Yellow-rumped Warblers construct nests within conifer trees using twigs, pine needles, and grass, lined with soft grass, moss, and hair. Each clutch comprises up to six eggs, requiring around two weeks to hatch, followed by an additional two weeks before the fledglings leave the nest.
To attract Yellow-rumped Warblers to your yard, offer sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fascinating Fact: During winter, Yellow-rumped Warblers form flocks of thousands, displaying territorial aggression towards other species that venture too close.
3. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers grace Massachusetts during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 32% of summer checklists. Their arrival commences in April, while their migration commences in October.
These delightful birds feature bright yellow plumage, accompanied by a yellow-green back. Males showcase chestnut streaks on their breasts, while females and juveniles possess a less vibrant appearance and lack the streaks altogether.
Setophaga petechia
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 inches (16-20 cm)
Yellow Warblers embark on long-distance migrations to breed across Canada and the US, excluding southeastern states, before returning to Central and South America for winter. However, during migration, they may be spotted in southeastern US states.
You’ll find Yellow Warblers frequenting streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, diligently foraging for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Song of the Yellow Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC662546. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/662546.
Female Yellow Warblers construct cup-shaped nests in small trees or shrubs using bark, grass, and woven plant material, fortified with spider webs. These nests are lined with softer materials like hair, feathers, and plant down. Each clutch comprises up to seven eggs, requiring approximately twelve days to hatch, followed by an additional ten days before the young ones fledge.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants bearing berries. Cultivate native plants that entice insects while avoiding the use of pesticides or excessive tidiness. Additionally, consider installing birdbaths with fountains amidst secluded plantings, providing a sense of security.
Fascinating Fact: Yellow Warblers often encounter intrusion by cowbirds, which lay their eggs in the warblers’ nests. When such parasitic eggs are detected, Yellow Warblers construct new nests atop the existing ones, repeatedly starting afresh up to six times!
4. Pine Warbler
Pine Warblers appear on approximately 16% of summer checklists in Massachusetts. While some individuals may remain throughout the year, they are most prevalent from April to July.
These plump, yellow-feathered warblers sport olive backs, white bellies, and gray wingbars. Females may exhibit a browner appearance with increased whiteness on their bellies.
Setophaga pinus
Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounces (9-15 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 inches (19-23 cm)
Pine Warblers predominantly breed in northeastern US states before venturing to southeastern US states. Some individuals remain in southeastern US states year-round.
You can spot Pine Warblers primarily in pine forests, as their name implies, often perched high in trees. Their diet consists of caterpillars, beetles, spiders, and various insects and larvae. In colder weather, they supplement their diet with fruit and seeds.
Song of the Pine Warbler:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602052. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/602052.
Female Pine Warblers construct nests within pine trees using twigs, bark, pine needles, and grass, secured with spider silk. These nests are lined with feathers and animal hair. Each clutch comprises up to five eggs, requiring up to two weeks to hatch, followed by an additional ten days before the young ones fledge.
To attract Pine Warblers to your yard, provide tube feeders and platform feeders stocked with millet, cracked corn, sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, and suet. Additionally, cultivate native fruits and vines such as bayberry, grape, sumac, and Virginia creeper.
Fascinating Fact: Pine Warblers are among the few warblers that predominantly consume seeds, making them more likely visitors to backyard feeders.
5. Ovenbird
Ovenbirds grace Massachusetts throughout the breeding season, generally observed from May to September. They feature on around 21% of summer checklists.
Compared to other warblers, Ovenbirds may appear drab, donning olive-green backs and black-and-white spotted undersides.
Seiurus aurocapilla
Length: 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14 cm)
Weight: 0.6-1.0 ounce (16-28 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-10.2 inches (19-26 cm)
Ovenbirds breed in northeastern US states, Canada, the Midwest, and northwestern Canada. During migration, they traverse eastern US states. For winter, they seek refuge in Florida, Mexico, Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
You can find Ovenbirds rummaging through leaf litter on the forest floor, foraging for insects.
Song of the Ovenbird:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602036. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/602036.
Ovenbird nests are usually situated on the ground, carefully crafted by females using leaves, grass, bark, and other plant materials. These nests feature a side entrance and are lined with animal hair. Each clutch comprises around five eggs, requiring up to two weeks to hatch, followed by approximately ten days before the fledglings leave the nest.
Fascinating Fact: Ovenbirds derive their name from the unique shape of their nests, resembling a Dutch oven.
6. Black-and-white Warbler
Black-and-white Warblers are spotted in Massachusetts during the breeding season, with increased sightings during migration. They can be observed from April to October, with some individuals lingering until January.
Distinguished by their striped appearance, Black-and-white Warblers are easily identifiable. Males feature a prominent black patch extending across their eye and cheek, exhibiting a darker black hue compared to females.
Mniotilta varia
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounces (8-15 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed in the eastern United States and Canada. During migration, they traverse central US states. For winter, they seek refuge in Florida, the Gulf Coast, Mexico, Baja California, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
You’ll find Black-and-white Warblers skillfully hopping up and down tree trunks and branches in forests, diligently searching for insects.
Song of the Black-and-white Warbler:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC600300. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/600300.
Black-and-white Warblers construct their nests close to the ground, often concealed beneath logs or shrubs. These nests are fashioned from bark, grass, and pine needles, woven together and lined with feathers and animal hair. Each clutch comprises approximately five eggs.
Fascinating Fact: Black-and-white Warblers showcase distinctive foraging behavior, traversing tree trunks and branches in a unique manner, distinguishing them from other small yellow birds.
7. American Redstart
American Redstarts spend the breeding season in Massachusetts but are more commonly observed during spring and fall migration. They feature on 15% of summer checklists and up to 34% of checklists during migration.
These birds exhibit predominantly black plumage adorned with bright orange patches and a white underbelly. Females possess an olive-gray hue instead of black, accompanied by yellow patches.
Setophaga ruticilla
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (6-9 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)
American Redstarts breed in eastern US states, Canada, and northwestern US states. They can also be observed during migration in central and western US states.
American Redstarts can be found in deciduous woodlands, where they diligently feed on insects. They also visit backyards and thickets to feast on berries like serviceberry and magnolia.
Song of the American Redstart: Their song concludes with a drop in pitch.
Credit: Nick Kiehl, XC522368. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/522368.
Nests of American Redstarts are constructed near the trunk of trees or large shrubs, fashioned from bark, grass, and other plant materials. Each clutch comprises up to five eggs, requiring just under two weeks to hatch, followed by a week or two before the fledglings leave the nest.
To attract American Redstarts to your backyard, cultivate native trees and shrubs, particularly those bearing berries. Additionally, maintain brush piles to provide insect-friendly areas.
Fascinating Fact: American Redstart parents selectively feed specific chicks rather than providing food to all offspring.
8. Palm Warbler
Palm Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from April to May and September to November. Their presence is documented in up to 17% of checklists during these periods, with a few individuals staying into winter.
Palm Warblers feature a rusty red patch atop their heads and sport a browny-olive color across their bodies. Western populations showcase whiter bellies. Breeding males and females share similar appearances, while non-breeding individuals exhibit duller crowns.
Setophaga palmarum
Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounces (7-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-8.3 inches (20-21 cm)
Palm Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, exhibiting migration through eastern US states. Some individuals spend winter in Florida and along the southeastern coast.
You can spot Palm Warblers during spring and fall migration in weedy fields, forest edges, and scrubby areas. They often forage alongside other bird species such as Sparrows, Juncos, and Yellow-rumped Warblers, scouring the ground for insects.
Song of the Palm Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC189604. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/189604.
Nests of Palm Warblers are situated in bogs and boreal forests on the ground, skillfully crafted from grass, sedge, and ferns into a cup shape. The nests are lined with soft grass, feathers, and animal hair. Each clutch comprises around five eggs.
To attract Palm Warblers to your backyard, cultivate native plants that entice insects. Additionally, consider planting bayberry or hawthorn, which produce berries.
Fascinating Fact: Unlike most warblers, Palm Warblers predominantly navigate the ground, bobbing their tails while foraging for insects.
9. Northern Parula
Northern Parulas are spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to mid-June and late August to October. During spring migration, they feature on up to 27% of checklists, while fall migration sees them on 8% of checklists.
Northern Parulas exhibit a colorful blend of blueish-gray and yellow. Their backs possess a bluish-gray hue with a yellow patch, complemented by two white wingbars.
Males showcase a chestnut band separating the yellow throat and chest, a feature shared by both males and females. However, females appear paler, while juveniles possess a lighter appearance.
Setophaga americana
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.4 ounces (5-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm)
Northern Parulas breed in eastern US states, southeastern Canada, and venture into northwestern US states. They migrate to Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America for winter. Some individuals remain in southern Florida for the winter.
You can find Northern Parulas high up in deciduous forests, diligently hunting for insects.
Song of the Northern Parula:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC599828. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/599828.
Nests of Northern Parulas are constructed in long clumps of lichen and moss, hanging from tree branches. Spotting them involves looking up at large clumps of suspended moss during the summer.
To attract Northern Parulas to your backyard, cultivate native trees and shrubs, especially those bearing berries. Additionally, create brush piles to provide insect-friendly habitats.
Fascinating Fact: Northern Parula females handle the rearing of young, incubating the eggs and providing food. Males contribute by singing and removing fecal sacs!
10. Black-throated Green Warbler
Black-throated Green Warblers are observed in Massachusetts during the breeding season, spanning from April to December. They feature on 9% of summer checklists.
These small yellow songbirds exhibit a yellow face and head, paired with an olive-yellow back. They showcase black streaking on their sides and wings, with a whitish underside. Males boast prominent black patches on their throats, while females and juveniles possess smaller patches.
Setophaga virens
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (7-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
Black-throated Green Warblers primarily migrate over the eastern US, reaching their breeding grounds in northeastern US states and Canada. They spend winter in Mexico, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
You can find Black-throated Green Warblers perched high in forests, feeding on insects. Their black throat distinguishes them from other small yellow birds.
Song of the Black-throated Green Warbler:
Credit: Paul Driver, XC187636. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/187636.
Nests of Black-throated Green Warblers are situated in small trees, close to the trunk. They are crafted using twigs, bark, pine needles, grass, and bound together with spider webs. The nests are lined with feathers, moss, and animal hair. Each clutch comprises around four eggs, which hatch in approximately twelve days. The fledglings leave the nest after about ten days.
To attract Black-throated Green Warblers to your backyard, cultivate mature trees.
Fascinating Fact: Male Black-throated Green Warblers can sing over 400 times per hour and perform a “gloating” flight to assert dominance over rivals.
11. Chestnut-sided Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warblers are observed in Massachusetts during the breeding season, typically from May to September. They appear on approximately 14% of summer checklists.
These warblers showcase a striking combination of colors with their yellow crowns, white undersides, and chestnut-colored streaks on their sides. Males and females share a similar appearance, although females may have less vibrant plumage.
Setophaga pensylvanica
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-8.3 inches (18-21 cm)
Chestnut-sided Warblers breed in northeastern US states and southeastern Canada. During migration, they traverse through central US states. For winter, they migrate to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
You can spot Chestnut-sided Warblers in shrubby habitats and young forests, where they actively forage for insects and caterpillars.
Song of the Chestnut-sided Warbler:
Credit: Nick Kiehl, XC522320. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/522320.
Nests of Chestnut-sided Warblers are constructed in low vegetation, often near the ground. Females create cup-shaped nests using twigs, grass, and plant fibers, and they line them with fine materials like hair and feathers. Each clutch contains around four to five eggs, which take approximately 12 days to hatch, followed by another 10 days before the young leave the nest.
To attract Chestnut-sided Warblers to your backyard, provide dense shrubs and young trees that offer suitable foraging and nesting habitats.
Fun Fact: Male Chestnut-sided Warblers are known for their distinctive song, which resembles the phrase “pleased, pleased, pleased to meet ya!”
12. Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during the breeding season, usually from May to September. They appear on approximately 9% of summer checklists.
These warblers exhibit sexually dimorphic plumage. Males feature a vibrant black throat and a blue upper body, while females showcase a duller olive-brown coloration.
Setophaga caerulescens
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Black-throated Blue Warblers breed in northeastern US states and southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in eastern US states. For winter, they head to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.
These warblers prefer mature deciduous and mixed forests, where they actively search for insects, spiders, and small fruits.
Song of the Black-throated Blue Warbler:
Credit: David Darrell-Lambert, XC464486. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/464486.
Nests of Black-throated Blue Warblers are built in low vegetation or shrubs, near the ground. Females construct cup-shaped nests using twigs, grass, and other plant materials, often camouflaging them with lichen. Each clutch typically contains three to four eggs, which hatch after around 11 days. The young spend about 10 days in the nest before fledging.
To attract Black-throated Blue Warblers to your backyard, provide a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, along with shrubs that offer food and suitable nesting sites.
Fun Fact: Male Black-throated Blue Warblers engage in a unique courtship behavior called “butterfly display,” in which they rapidly spread their wings to reveal bright white patches.
13. Prairie Warbler
Prairie Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during the breeding season, primarily from May to September. They are recorded on approximately 6% of summer checklists.
These warblers exhibit a bright yellow coloration with bold black streaks on their sides and a distinctive black eyeline.
Setophaga discolor
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.1 inches (17-18 cm)
Prairie Warblers breed in the eastern US states and southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in the central and eastern regions of the US. For winter, they migrate to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.
You can find Prairie Warblers in open habitats with shrubby vegetation, such as old fields, brushy areas, and regenerating forests. They actively forage for insects and spiders, often gleaning them from foliage.
Song of the Prairie Warbler:
Credit: Nick Kiehl, XC522301. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/522301.
Nests of Prairie Warblers are constructed in low vegetation, usually close to the ground. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, bark strips, and plant fibers, and they line them with fine materials like hair and feathers. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after around 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after approximately 10 days.
To attract Prairie Warblers to your backyard, provide open areas with shrubby vegetation, along with a diverse array of insects and spiders as a food source.
Fun Fact: Prairie Warblers are known for their unique song, which has been described as a buzzy, rising “zee-zee-zee-zoo-zee.”
14. Blackburnian Warbler
Blackburnian Warblers are observed in Massachusetts during the breeding season, typically from May to September. They appear on approximately 5% of summer checklists.
These warblers boast vibrant orange throats and a bold black and white pattern on their heads and back. Their underparts are a striking yellow color.
Setophaga fusca
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 inches (18-19 cm)
Blackburnian Warblers breed in northeastern US states and southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern US. For winter, they migrate to northern South America.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects among the foliage.
Song of the Blackburnian Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC394805. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/394805.
Nests of Blackburnian Warblers are typically located in coniferous trees, often at considerable heights. Females construct cup-shaped nests using bark strips, moss, twigs, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch contains around three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-12 days. The young spend about 8-10 days in the nest before fledging.
To attract Blackburnian Warblers to your backyard, maintain mature coniferous trees and provide a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Blackburnian Warblers have one of the highest recorded altitudinal migrations among North American songbirds, breeding in high-elevation forests and wintering in lowland forests.
15. Louisiana Waterthrush
Louisiana Waterthrushes can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from April to May and September to October. They are recorded on up to 7% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a streaked brownish back and a white belly with distinct brown streaks. They possess a long white eyebrow and a pinkish tinge to their legs.
Parkesia motacilla
Length: 5.1-5.9 inches (13-15 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.8 ounces (18-23 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Louisiana Waterthrushes breed in the eastern US states and into southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be spotted in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to Florida, the Gulf Coast, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
These warblers prefer habitats near flowing streams and rivers in deciduous forests, where they actively forage for insects, aquatic invertebrates, and small crustaceans.
Song of the Louisiana Waterthrush:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC631261. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/631261.
Nests of Louisiana Waterthrushes are built along streams and rivers, often near the water’s edge. They create cup-shaped nests from leaves, grasses, moss, and twigs, lining them with fine materials like hair and feathers. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-14 days. The young leave the nest after about 9-11 days.
To attract Louisiana Waterthrushes to your backyard, create a suitable water source, such as a birdbath or small stream, and maintain natural vegetation near the water’s edge.
Fun Fact: Louisiana Waterthrushes are known for their distinctive habit of bobbing their tails up and down as they forage along the water’s edge.
16. Worm-eating Warbler
Worm-eating Warblers are spotted in Massachusetts during migration from April to May and September to October. They appear on up to 4% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a primarily olive-brown coloration with bold black stripes on their head and back. They possess a pale yellow throat and a distinct eye ring.
Helmitheros vermivorum
Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Worm-eating Warblers breed in the southeastern US states and into the Appalachian Mountains. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to Mexico and Central America.
These warblers primarily inhabit deciduous forests with dense understory, where they actively forage for insects, particularly caterpillars and spiders, among the leaf litter.
Song of the Worm-eating Warbler:
Credit: Paul Driver, XC389237. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/389237.
Nests of Worm-eating Warblers are constructed on or near the ground, often hidden under vegetation or fallen leaves. Females create cup-shaped nests using leaves, grass, bark, and other plant materials, lining them with fine materials like hair and feathers. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-14 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Worm-eating Warblers to your backyard, maintain dense understory vegetation and leaf litter to provide suitable foraging and nesting habitats.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, Worm-eating Warblers primarily feed on insects rather than worms, although they occasionally consume small invertebrates like caterpillars.
17. Hooded Warbler
Hooded Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from April to May and September to October. They appear on up to 4% of checklists during these times.
These warblers exhibit a striking black hood that extends down to their chest, contrasting with their bright yellow face and underparts.
Setophaga citrina
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
Hooded Warblers breed in the southeastern US states and into the Appalachian Mountains. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
These warblers prefer habitats with dense understory vegetation, such as forests, thickets, and woodland edges. They actively forage for insects, spiders, and small fruits.
Song of the Hooded Warbler:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC575993. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/575993.
Nests of Hooded Warblers are typically built close to the ground in dense vegetation. Females construct cup-shaped nests using leaves, bark strips, grass, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young spend about 8-10 days in the nest before fledging.
To attract Hooded Warblers to your backyard, provide dense shrubs and maintain a variety of insects and small fruits as a food source.
Fun Fact: Male Hooded Warblers have a unique courtship behavior where they spread their wings and tail to display their vibrant plumage while hopping and singing in a spiraling pattern.
18. Cerulean Warbler
Cerulean Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to mid-May and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 3% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a beautiful cerulean blue color on their upperparts and a white underbelly. Males exhibit a dark blue-black band across their throat.
Setophaga cerulea
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 inches (18-19 cm)
Cerulean Warblers breed in the eastern US states and into southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to northern South America.
These warblers primarily inhabit mature deciduous forests, where they actively forage for insects among the tree canopy.
Song of the Cerulean Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC354933. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/354933.
Nests of Cerulean Warblers are constructed on horizontal branches of tall deciduous trees, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using bark strips, grass, and other plant materials, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to four eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Cerulean Warblers to your backyard, maintain mature deciduous forests with a diverse tree canopy and provide a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Cerulean Warblers are known for their acrobatic foraging behavior, often hanging upside down from branches to capture insects.
19. Prothonotary Warbler
Prothonotary Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early May and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 3% of checklists during these times.
These warblers exhibit a vibrant golden-yellow coloration on their head and underparts, contrasting with their olive-green wings and back.
Protonotaria citrea
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Prothonotary Warblers breed in the southeastern US states and into the Midwest. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to Central America and northern South America.
These warblers primarily inhabit swampy forests, wooded swamps, and wetlands, where they actively forage for insects near the water’s surface.
Song of the Prothonotary Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC394800. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/394800.
Nests of Prothonotary Warblers are built inside tree cavities, often in proximity to water bodies. They create cup-shaped nests using moss, bark fibers, and leaves, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-14 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Prothonotary Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable nest boxes near water sources and maintain wetland or swampy habitats.
Fun Fact: Prothonotary Warblers are one of the few warbler species that readily use nest boxes, making them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.
20. Orange-crowned Warbler
Orange-crowned Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during the winter months from November to March. They appear on up to 3% of checklists during this time.
These warblers have a rather plain appearance, with olive-green upperparts and a yellowish-green underbelly. They occasionally exhibit a faint orange crown patch.
Leiothlypis celata
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Orange-crowned Warblers breed in the western US and into western Canada. During winter, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, shrubby areas, and gardens. They actively forage for insects and spiders among the vegetation.
Song of the Orange-crowned Warbler:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC575464. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/575464.
Nests of Orange-crowned Warblers are typically built in low shrubs or dense vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, moss, and bark fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-14 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Orange-crowned Warblers to your backyard, provide diverse vegetation with shrubby areas and offer a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Orange-crowned Warblers are known for their elusive nature and can be challenging to spot due to their inconspicuous plumage.
21. Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chats can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from May to September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during this time.
These warblers have a unique appearance, with a large, round body and a long tail. They possess a bright yellow breast and belly, contrasting with their olive-green back and wings.
Icteria virens
Length: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
Weight: 1.0-1.4 ounces (28-40 g)
Wingspan: 8.7-9.8 inches (22-25 cm)
Yellow-breasted Chats breed in the central and eastern US states and into southern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers prefer dense, shrubby habitats such as thickets, brushy areas, and streamside vegetation. They actively forage for insects and also incorporate berries and fruits into their diet.
Song of the Yellow-breasted Chat:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC522620. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/522620.
Nests of Yellow-breasted Chats are typically built in dense shrubs or tangled vegetation. Females construct cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Yellow-breasted Chats to your backyard, provide thickets or dense shrubby areas as suitable nesting and foraging habitats.
Fun Fact: Yellow-breasted Chats are known for their loud and varied vocalizations, which often include a combination of whistles, rattles, and mimicry of other bird species.
22. Blackburnian Warbler
Blackburnian Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from May to June and from August to September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers display vibrant plumage, with an orange throat and upper breast, black back and wings, and white underparts.
Setophaga fusca
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Blackburnian Warblers breed in northeastern US states and into southeastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in central and eastern US states. For winter, they migrate to Central and South America.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects by gleaning and hovering among the tree branches.
Song of the Blackburnian Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC412593. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/412593.
Nests of Blackburnian Warblers are built on branches of coniferous trees, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using bark strips, plant fibers, and moss, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to four eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 9-11 days.
To attract Blackburnian Warblers to your backyard, provide mature coniferous forests with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Blackburnian Warblers are known for their exceptional climbing ability, often moving headfirst down tree trunks in search of insects.
23. Bay-breasted Warbler
Bay-breasted Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration
from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers exhibit a unique plumage, with a reddish-brown crown and sides, grayish back and wings, and a yellowish underbelly.
Setophaga castanea
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Bay-breasted Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects by searching foliage and branches.
Song of the Bay-breasted Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC188925. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/188925.
Nests of Bay-breasted Warblers are built on branches of coniferous trees, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using bark strips, plant fibers, and moss, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-11 days.
To attract Bay-breasted Warblers to your backyard, provide mature coniferous forests with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Bay-breasted Warblers have a unique migration pattern, often flying nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico during their journey between their breeding and wintering grounds.
24. Tennessee Warbler
Tennessee Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a relatively plain appearance, with olive-green upperparts and a pale yellow underbelly. They possess a faint grayish head and a white eye ring.
Leiothlypis peregrina
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (6-8 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-6.7 inches (16-17 cm)
Tennessee Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers inhabit a variety of forested habitats, including coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects among the tree foliage.
Song of the Tennessee Warbler:
Credit: David Farrow, XC475363. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/475363.
Nests of Tennessee Warblers are typically built on the ground, hidden beneath vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and bark fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 9-11 days.
To attract Tennessee Warblers to your backyard, provide diverse forested habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Tennessee Warblers are known for their swift and energetic foraging behavior, often flitting rapidly through tree canopies in search of insects.
25. Cape May Warbler
Cape May Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers display a striking plumage, with a yellowish-green back and wings, reddish-brown streaks on the breast, and a yellow throat and underbelly.
Setophaga tigrina
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Cape May Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects by probing and gleaning among the foliage.
Song of the Cape May Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC607116. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/607116.
Nests of Cape May Warblers are typically built on coniferous tree branches, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using plant fibers, grasses, and moss, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Cape May Warblers to your backyard, provide mature coniferous forests with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Cape May Warblers have a unique feeding behavior where they extract nectar from flowers using their specialized tubular tongue, allowing them to supplement their insect-based diet.
26. Magnolia Warbler
Magnolia Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers exhibit a distinct plumage, with a black mask across the eyes, a yellow throat and chest, and grayish-black streaks on the back.
Setophaga magnolia
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-8.3 inches (18-21 cm)
Magnolia Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects among the tree foliage.
Song of the Magnolia Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC440648. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/440648.
Nests of Magnolia Warblers are typically built on branches of coniferous trees, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using bark strips, plant fibers, and moss, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 10-12 days.
To attract Magnolia Warblers to your backyard, provide mature coniferous forests with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Magnolia Warbler was named not after the magnolia tree but after a French botanist, Pierre Magnol, who made significant contributions to plant classification.
27. Mourning Warbler
Mourning Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a subtle yet distinctive appearance, with an olive-green back, gray head, yellow underparts, and a dark mask across the eyes.
Geothlypis philadelphia
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Mourning Warblers breed in the northeastern US states and into eastern Canada. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers prefer habitats with dense understory vegetation, such as shrubby areas, young forests, and wetlands. They actively forage for insects close to the ground and in low vegetation.
Song of the Mourning Warbler:
Credit: Eric DeFonso, XC274448. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/274448.
Nests of Mourning Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Mourning Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Mourning Warbler’s name is derived from its melancholic-sounding song, which is often described as a series of low, mournful whistles.
28. Connecticut Warbler
Connecticut Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a relatively plain appearance, with olive-brown upperparts, a grayish head, and a yellowish underbelly. They possess a distinct white eye ring.
Oporornis agilis
Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-14 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
Connecticut Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit dense, shrubby areas with a thick understory, such as young forests, wetlands, and thickets. They actively forage for insects close to the ground and in low vegetation.
Song of the Connecticut Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC256007. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/256007.
Nests of Connecticut Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 12-13 days. The young leave the nest after about 9-11 days.
To attract Connecticut Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Connecticut Warblers are known for their elusive behavior and secretive nature, making them a challenging species to spot and observe.
29. Kentucky Warbler
Kentucky Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a bold appearance, with a bright yellow underbelly, a black mask across the eyes, and a greenish-black back.
Geothlypis formosa
Length: 5.5-6.3 inches (14-16 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.7 ounces (17-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 inches (20-22 cm)
Kentucky Warblers breed in the southeastern US states and into the Midwest. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit dense, shrubby areas with a thick understory, such as bottomlands, wetlands, and forest edges. They actively forage for insects close to the ground and in low vegetation.
Song of the Kentucky Warbler:
Credit: Lance A. M. Benner, XC442456. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/442456.
Nests of Kentucky Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Kentucky Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Kentucky Warblers have a unique vocalization, described as a series of rolling, buzzy notes that sound similar to the phrase “tee-cher, tee-cher, tee-cher.”
30. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a vibrant appearance, with bright yellow plumage, a black cap, and a small black patch around the eyes.
Cardellina pusilla
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Wilson’s Warblers breed in the western US states and into Canada. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and shrubby areas near water. They actively forage for insects by gleaning foliage and branches.
Song of the Wilson’s Warbler:
Credit: J.R. Rigby, XC380074. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/380074.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers are typically built on the ground, hidden in dense vegetation or low shrubs. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Wilson’s Warblers to your backyard, provide diverse habitats with dense vegetation and a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Wilson’s Warblers are known for their energetic and lively foraging behavior, often flicking their wings and tails while searching for insects.
31. Canada Warbler
Canada Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a subtle yet distinctive appearance, with a grayish-blue back, a yellow underbelly, and a bold necklace-like pattern of black streaks across the chest.
Cardellina canadensis
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (10-14 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.3 inches (19-21 cm)
Canada Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit dense, shrubby areas with a thick understory, such as young forests, wetlands, and thickets. They actively forage for insects close to the ground and in low vegetation.
Song of the Canada Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC312881. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/312881.
Nests of Canada Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Canada Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Canada Warbler is known for its unique migration pattern, undertaking one of the longest nonstop flights of any songbird, crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single flight.
32. Bay-breasted Warbler
Bay-breasted Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a striking appearance, with a chestnut-colored crown, a black face, and a pinkish hue on the underparts.
Setophaga castanea
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-8.3 inches (18-21 cm)
Bay-breasted Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects by probing and gleaning among the foliage.
Song of the Bay-breasted Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC255829. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/255829.
Nests of Bay-breasted Warblers are typically built on coniferous tree branches, usually near the tree’s trunk. Females create cup-shaped nests using fine materials like grasses, plant fibers, and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Bay-breasted Warblers to your backyard, provide mature coniferous forests with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Bay-breasted Warbler is known for its unique feeding behavior, where it actively consumes the buds and blossoms of trees, especially during its spring migration.
33. Tennessee Warbler
Tennessee Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a modest appearance, with olive-green upperparts, a pale yellow underbelly, and a faint eyering.
Leiothlypis peregrina
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Tennessee Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and shrubby areas near water. They actively forage for insects by gleaning foliage and branches.
Song of the Tennessee Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC257904. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/257904.
Nests of Tennessee Warblers are typically built on the ground, hidden in dense vegetation or low shrubs. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Tennessee Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: Despite its name, the Tennessee Warbler does not breed in the state of Tennessee. The name was given based on the location where the species was first observed and described.
34. Nashville Warbler
Nashville Warblers can be observed in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to
mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a distinct appearance, with a grayish head, a yellow underbelly, and a white eye ring.
Leiothlypis ruficapilla
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and shrubby areas near water. They actively forage for insects by gleaning foliage and branches.
Song of the Nashville Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC288582. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/288582.
Nests of Nashville Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in dense vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains four to six eggs, which hatch after approximately 10-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Nashville Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Nashville Warbler was named after the city of Nashville, Tennessee, where it was first collected and described as a new species.
35. Mourning Warbler
Mourning Warblers can be spotted in Massachusetts during migration from late April to early June and late August to mid-September. They appear on up to 2% of checklists during these times.
These warblers have a distinctive appearance, with a grayish head, a yellow underbelly, and a black bib-like patch on the chest.
Geothlypis philadelphia
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Mourning Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and into northeastern US states. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the US, including Massachusetts.
These warblers primarily inhabit dense, shrubby areas with a thick understory, such as young forests, wetlands, and thickets. They actively forage for insects close to the ground and in low vegetation.
Song of the Mourning Warbler:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC258058. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/258058.
Nests of Mourning Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden in dense vegetation. Females create cup-shaped nests using grasses, leaves, and plant fibers, lining them with fine materials like feathers and hair. Each clutch typically contains three to five eggs, which hatch after approximately 11-12 days. The young leave the nest after about 8-10 days.
To attract Mourning Warblers to your backyard, provide suitable shrubby habitats with a variety of insects as a food source.
Fun Fact: The Mourning Warbler gets its name from its song, which has been described as a “mournful” or “sad” whistle.
Guide to Warbler Melodies
The enchanting melodies of warblers often reach your ears before the colorful birds grace your sight. Familiarizing yourself with a few of their songs will enhance your ability to identify these avian wonders. Fortunately, some warbler songs possess unique and distinguishable qualities.
Warblers’ songs exhibit characteristics such as a buzzing resonance, crystal-clear notes akin to whistles, and rapid trills that fuse together various tones. The buzzing notes resonate like the hum of insects, while the clear notes emit a pure whistle-like sound. Trills, on the other hand, are so swift that the individual notes become indiscernible.
This guide provides an opportunity to listen to the songs of all the warblers mentioned here. It offers assistance in recognizing 13 warbler melodies that are easily distinguishable.
Warblers with Buzzing Songs:
– The Black-throated Blue Warbler’s song ascends with a buzzy quality.
– Prairie Warblers also produce rising and buzzy songs.
– Black-throated Green Warblers’ songs possess buzzy elements, interrupted by a couple of clear notes in the middle.
– Blackpoll Warblers emit clear and steady songs, reminiscent of the buzzing of insects.
– The Prairie Warbler’s song exhibits a buzzing quality while rising in pitch.
– Palm Warblers’ songs possess a distinct buzzing characteristic.
Warblers with Songs Containing Clear Notes:
– The Common Yellowthroat’s song comprises a sequence of rising and falling notes that are repeated.
– Ovenbirds sing a series of notes that rise and fall in pitch.
– Hooded Warblers also produce clear notes in their melodies.
– Chestnut-sided Warblers’ songs consist of a series of clear descending notes that accelerate towards the end.
– Yellow-rumped Warblers create a series of fading clear notes.
– Yellow Warblers’ songs accelerate in pace.
– Northern Parulas produce a rising trill that concludes with a distinct note, almost resembling a concluding punctuation mark.
– Wilson’s Warblers’ songs feature a series of clear descending notes that accelerate.
Warbler Sightings in Massachusetts during Summer and Winter
Checklists serve as valuable resources when determining the frequency of warbler sightings in your state. These lists provide information on the warbler species most frequently observed in Massachusetts during the summer and winter seasons, as recorded on ebird checklists.
Summer Warblers in Massachusetts:
– Yellow Warbler – 33.3%
– Common Yellowthroat – 33.1%
– Ovenbird – 21.0%
– Black-and-white Warbler – 17.2%
– Pine Warbler – 16.3%
– American Redstart – 15.5%
– Yellow-rumped Warbler – 14.2%
– Northern Parula – 10.9%
– Black-throated Green Warbler – 9.8%
– Chestnut-sided Warbler – 7.8%
– Magnolia Warbler – 7.2%
– Black-throated Blue Warbler – 7.2%
– Prairie Warbler – 5.7%
– Blue-winged Warbler – 4.8%
– Northern Waterthrush – 4.7%
– Blackpoll Warbler – 4.6%
– Blackburnian Warbler – 4.3%
– Nashville Warbler – 3.7%
– Palm Warbler – 2.7%
– Canada Warbler – 2.7%
– Wilson’s Warbler – 2.6%
– Bay-breasted Warbler – 1.7%
– Tennessee Warbler – 1.3%
– Louisiana Waterthrush – 1.2%
– Cape May Warbler – 1.1%
– Worm-eating Warbler – 0.8%
– Mourning Warbler – 0.5%
– Hooded Warbler – 0.3%
– Cerulean Warbler – 0.3%
– Kentucky Warbler – 0.1%
– Prothonotary Warbler – 0.1%
– Orange-crowned Warbler – 0.1%
– Yellow-throated Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Yellow-breasted Chat – Less than 0.1%
– Connecticut Warbler – Less than 0.1%
Winter Warblers in Massachusetts:
– Yellow-rumped Warbler – 4.3%
– Pine Warbler – 0.8%
– Yellow-breasted Chat – 0.3%
– Palm Warbler – 0.2%
– Orange-crowned Warbler – 0.2%
– Common Yellowthroat – 0.1%
– Yellow-throated Warbler – 0.1%
– Ovenbird – 0.1%
– Wilson’s Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Nashville Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Black-throated Blue Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Northern Waterthrush – Less than 0.1%
– Black-and-white Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Prairie Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Cape May Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Tennessee Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Northern Parula – Less than 0.1%
– Hooded Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– American Redstart – Less than 0.1%
– Yellow Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Black-throated Green Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Blue-winged Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Blackpoll Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Chestnut-sided Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Bay-breasted Warbler – Less than 0.1%
– Magnolia Warbler – Less than 0.1%
Attracting Warblers to Your Backyard
While warblers may not visit backyard feeders as frequently as other songbirds, there are steps you can take to entice these melodious avians to your yard:
– If your yard is spacious enough, provide trees as shelter.
– Maintain brush piles and embrace a slightly untidy environment to create a habitat suitable for insects, which warblers feed on.
– Avoid using pesticides or herbicides to ensure an ample insect population for the birds to enjoy.
– Offer a clean water source for drinking and bathing.
– Provide mealworms as a food source, preferably live ones, but dried ones can suffice.
– Install bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, and suet to attract warblers.