Discover the ultimate handbook designed to assist you in recognizing every warbler species that frequently visits British Columbia. Packed with captivating photo identifications, detailed descriptions, melodious audio recordings, and intriguing facts, this guide offers much more than you could imagine.
Warblers, those petite migratory songbirds, embark on epic journeys from as far as South America, all the way up to their breeding grounds in Canada. These vibrant creatures, adorned in splashes of yellow and green, traverse vast distances, serenading us with an enchanting symphony of songs.
North American warblers, often referred to as wood-warblers, prefer to inhabit woodland and forested areas. However, be cautious of “warbler neck,” a condition characterized by stiff and tingling sensations in the neck caused by craning your neck upward while using binoculars to spot these elusive beauties perched high among the treetops.
Insects serve as the primary diet for warblers, yet they occasionally grace backyard feeders, nibbling on seeds or relishing mealworms. Discover other avian species that regularly grace British Columbia, and don’t forget to snag a complimentary identification chart.
This invaluable guide not only aids in the identification of warbler types observed in British Columbia, but it also provides authentic information regarding their seasonal occurrence, thanks to data contributed by avid bird watchers via ebird.
For each warbler featured in this compendium, delight in the melodious renditions of their songs while gaining insights into the distinctive song types. Additionally, don’t miss out on a separate guide exclusively dedicated to thirteen easily recognizable warbler songs, providing an extra layer of assistance.
Warblers in British Columbia According to the Season:
Summer Warblers in British Columbia: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Townsend’s Warbler, MacGillivray’s Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, American Redstart, Nashville Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Tennessee Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Ovenbird, Black-and-white Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Mourning Warbler, Canada Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Connecticut Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler.
Warblers in British Columbia During Migration: Palm Warbler.
A Total of 24 Warbler Species in British Columbia:
1. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers can be observed during the breeding season in British Columbia, but their numbers surge during migration from April to May and September to October. They make appearances in approximately 24% of summer checklists and up to 50% of checklists during migration.
These gray-hued warblers sport vibrant bursts of yellow on their faces, sides, and rumps, along with white wings. Female individuals may exhibit a slight brownish tint, while winter plumage reveals paler brown tones, transitioning to bright yellow and gray as spring approaches.
The species comprises two subspecies: the Myrtle Warbler, found in the eastern US and boreal forests of Canada, lacking a yellow throat, and Audubon’s Warbler from the western regions, distinguished by its additional white wing markings.
- 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 primarily breed in Canada, within the Rockies and Appalachian mountains. During migration, they grace the
Midwest before wintering in southern and southwestern US states, as well as along the Pacific Coast, extending down into Mexico and Central America.
These warblers thrive in coniferous forests, particularly during the breeding season. In winter, they prefer open areas enriched with fruiting shrubs. Their diet mainly consists of insects during summer and migration, while winter fare primarily revolves around fruit, including bayberry and wax myrtle.
Immerse yourself in the melodic tunes of the Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602699. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
Nesting duties fall upon the female Yellow-rumped Warblers, who construct their abodes among conifer trees using twigs, pine needles, and grass. These nests feature a soft lining of grass, moss, and hair. The female lays up to six eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the fledglings take an additional two weeks to leave the nest.
To attract Yellow-rumped Warblers to your backyard, entice them with sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: During winter, Yellow-rumped Warblers gather in flocks numbering in the thousands, exhibiting aggression toward other species that dare to approach their territory.
2. Orange-crowned Warbler
Orange-crowned Warblers grace British Columbia throughout the breeding season, primarily sighted between April and December. They make appearances in approximately 17% of summer checklists.
These warblers don modest yellow-olive plumage, with the yellow tones intensifying along the Pacific Coast. Their elusive orange crown rarely reveals itself. Males and females bear a similar appearance, while juveniles exhibit a grayer hue.
- Leiothlypis celata
- Length: 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (7-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Orange-crowned Warblers breed in Canada and western US states before embarking on a migratory journey to the Pacific, East and Gulf Coasts, and Mexico. During migration, they traverse all US states, except the northeastern region.
These warblers prefer shrubs, low vegetation, and open woodlands for their habitats. However, they specifically choose open woodland areas for breeding purposes. Their diet consists primarily of spiders and insects such as caterpillars and flies, supplemented by fruit, berries, and seeds. They frequently visit backyard feeders.
Indulge in the captivating melodies of the Orange-crowned Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC671865. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/671865.
Nests of Orange-crowned Warblers are nestled near or on the ground, constructed using dead leaves, twigs, stems, and a soft grass and animal hair lining. The female lays up to six eggs.
Attract these charming warblers to your yard with suet, peanut butter, or hummingbird feeders filled with sugar water nectar.
Fun Fact: Orange-crowned Warblers have been observed sipping sap from sapsuckers’ and woodpeckers’ sapwells.
3. Common Yellowthroat
Common Yellowthroats thrive during the summer in British Columbia, particularly from April to October, featuring in approximately 16% of summer checklists.
These diminutive songbirds exhibit brownish plumage on their backs and vibrant yellow tones underneath, with elongated tails. Males don distinctive black masks across their faces. The brightness of their yellow hues may vary geographically, with some populations appearing more olive-toned below.
- 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 spend the summer breeding across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest year-round, while others embark on a southward migration for the winter.
These vibrant songsters often inhabit marshy or wetland areas, as well as brushy fields adorned with thick and tangled vegetation.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the Common Yellowthroat:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC629250. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Nests of Common Yellowthroats are constructed by females near the ground in marshy areas, supported by reeds. The nests consist of grass and sedges, forming a cup-shaped structure atop a platform of leaves and grass. They lay up to six eggs, with an incubation period of around twelve days, followed by an additional two weeks for the fledglings to leave the nest.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, ensure the presence of dense vegetation and native plants to entice insects.
Fun Fact: The black mask sported by male Common Yellowthroats serves as a signal to courting males, provoking aggressive responses toward fake birds without the mask.
4. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers are frequently spotted in British Columbia during the breeding season, arriving in April and commencing their migration in October. They appear in up to 19% of summer checklists.
These small, vibrant birds don a brilliant yellow plumage with a hint of green on their backs. Male individuals boast chestnut streaks on their breasts, while females and juveniles possess a slightly more subdued appearance, lacking the distinct streaks.
- 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 undertake extensive migrations to breed in Canada and the United States, excluding southeastern states, before embarking on a journey to Central and South America for the winter. However, they can be observed during migration in southeastern US states.
These cheerful songbirds can be found along streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, tirelessly foraging for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Delight in the delightful melodies of the Yellow Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC662546. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/662546.
Nests of Yellow Warblers are constructed in small trees or shrubs, carefully woven together with bark, grass, and plant materials, secured with spider webs to form a cup-shaped structure. The nests are then lined with softer materials like hair, feathers, and plant down. These devoted parents lay up to seven eggs, which hatch after around twelve days, with the young leaving the nest within two weeks.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer enticing treats such as suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants bearing berries. Creating a habitat with native plants that attract insects without the use of pesticides and maintaining a natural environment can also be beneficial. Consider installing birdbaths with fountains near secluded plantings to provide additional protection.
Fun Fact: Yellow Warblers face the challenge of brood parasitism by cowbirds, which often lay their eggs in the warblers’ nests. If detected, Yellow Warblers build a new nest on top of the old one, attempting to outwit the intruders. This behavior can be repeated up to six times!
5. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers are spotted in British Columbia during the summer months, appearing in approximately 13% of checklists during this period. They are primarily observed from May to mid-October.
These petite warblers sport a vibrant yellow plumage, with males donning a large black cap and females sporting a smaller black cap.
- Cardellina pusilla
- Length: 3.9-4.7 inches (10-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (5-10 g)
- Wingspan: 5.5-6.7 inches (14-17 cm)
Wilson’s Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern US states before embarking on a migratory journey to Mexico and Central America. During migration, they can be seen across most US states.
These lively birds can be found along streams, among thickets, and near forest edges, actively foraging for insects, larvae, and spiders.
Immerse yourself in the melodious song of the Wilson’s Warbler:
Credit: Thomas G. Graves, XC561438. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/561438.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers are well-hidden on the ground, located near trees or shrubs. They are skillfully constructed using leaves, sedges, grass, and woven into a cup shape, lined with soft grass and animal hair. These dedicated parents lay around five eggs, which hatch after approximately eleven days, and the fledglings leave the nest within an additional ten days.
While Wilson’s Warblers may not visit feeders, you can attract them to your backyard by providing a suitable environment with native trees and shrubs.
Fun Fact: Wilson’s Warblers employ a clever tactic to distract potential nest predators. They feign a broken wing, luring the predator away before swiftly flying off to safety.
6. Townsend’s Warbler
Townsend’s Warblers grace the landscapes of British Columbia during the breeding season, primarily observed from April to October, with a few individuals choosing to remain year-round. They appear in approximately 8% of summer checklists.
These striking warblers exhibit a black and yellow coloration. Males boast a black crown, cheeks, and throat, complemented by yellow eyebrows and a yellow crescent below the eye. Their bellies are also yellow, adorned with black spots on the upper back. The wings showcase black with two white wingbars. Females share a similar pattern but with a lighter coloration, lacking the distinct black throat. Juveniles display even lighter hues, with olive-green backs, crowns, and cheeks, and their chests feature light-colored streaks.
- Setophaga townsendi
- Length: 4.75-5 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 ounces (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8 inches (19-20 cm)
Townsend’s Warblers breed in western Canada, northwestern US states, and Alaska before embarking on a migratory journey to the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America.
These warblers thrive in tall, dense coniferous forests along the coastal regions and mountainous areas. They prefer habitats adorned with pine, oak, alder, madrones, and laurels.
Townsend’s Warblers diligently forage among twigs and branches, searching for insects such as caterpillars, bugs, beetles, and leafhoppers. They may also hover among foliage to secure their meals.
Listen to the delightful melodies of the Townsend’s Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC710935. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/710935.
Nests of Townsend’s Warblers are typically located high up in trees, often placed on top of a sturdy branch. Constructed from grass stems, mosses, barks, and lined with feathers and animal hair, these nests provide a safe haven for the female to lay her eggs. Townsend’s Warblers lay around five eggs, which hatch after approximately twelve days, and the young leave the nest within an additional ten days.
To attract Townsend’s Warblers to your backyard during winter, provide them with mealworms, peanut butter, and suet. These enticing offerings can entice them to visit backyard feeders, especially during colder temperatures.
Fun Fact: The Townsend’s Warbler was named after American ornithologist John Kirk Townsend, but it’s worth noting that John Kirk Townsend had already given the species a name, “Tolmie’s Warbler,” in honor of Dr. W. T. Tolmie. The compromise was reached with the scientific name “tolmiei.”
7. MacGillivray’s Warbler
MacGillivray’s Warblers spend their summers in British Columbia, often observed from April to November, featuring in around 6% of checklists during this time.
These compact warblers exhibit a unique appearance. Males showcase slate gray heads with black bands across their eyes, along with grayish spots darkening to black from under the bill to the throat. Females, on the other hand, sport a light-gray head and throat without black markings. Both genders possess olive-gray backs, yellow bellies, and distinctive partial eyerings in the shape of crescents.
- Geothlypis tolmiei
- Length: 5.25 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 ounces (11 g)
- Wingspan: 8.25 inches (21 cm)
MacGillivray’s Warblers primarily breed in northwestern US states and western Canada before embarking on a migratory journey to Mexico and Central America.
These warblers thrive in areas rich with dense shrubbery or vegetation. They can be found in 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 in search of insects like beetles and caterpillars.
Listen to the delightful song of the MacGillivray’s Warbler:
Credit: Bobby Wilcox, XC667171. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/667171.
Nests of MacGillivray’s Warblers remain concealed within thick shrubs, typically positioned one to five feet above the ground. Some nests may even be placed on the ground amidst tall weeds and ferns. Constructed from weed stems, barks, and dry grass, these nests provide a comfortable haven for the female to lay her eggs. Incubation takes around eleven days, after which the young birds leave the nest.
Fun Fact: The nomenclature of MacGillivray’s Warblers carries an interesting backstory. The species was initially named after Dr. W. MacGillivray, a friend of John James Audubon. However, John Kirk Townsend had already bestowed a name upon the species, “Tolmie’s Warbler,” in honor of Dr. W. T. Tolmie. The compromise was reached with the scientific name “tolmiei.”
8. Black-throated Gray Warbler
Black-throated Gray Warblers can be observed in British Columbia during the breeding season, primarily in the southern regions of the province. They make an appearance in around 4% of summer checklists.
These warblers exhibit a captivating black-and-white streaked pattern, with a gray back and a yellow spot in front of their eyes. Male individuals possess more black on their throats compared to females.
- Setophaga nigrescens
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (7-10 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.8 inches (19-19.7 cm)
Black-throated Gray Warblers breed in western and south-central US states, as well as along the British Columbia coast, before embarking on a migratory journey to Mexico for winter.
These charming birds can be found in woodlands, searching for insects on trees and shrubs.
Listen to the melodious song of the Black-throated Gray Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC648117. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/648117.
Nests of Black-throated Gray Warblers are situated in trees, meticulously constructed by the female using bark, grass, and moss. They lay up to five eggs.
Fun Fact: Despite the ease of observing Black-throated Gray Warblers, their behavior and characteristics remain relatively unknown.
9. American Redstart
American Redstarts spend their summers in British Columbia, primarily from May to mid-November, appearing in approximately 3% of checklists during this period.
These small songbirds don black and bright orange plumage, with a white belly. Females display olive-gray coloration instead of black, along with 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 and Canada, with a population that extends into northwestern US states. They are often spotted during migration across most US states.
These lively birds can be found in deciduous woodlands, as well as backyards and thickets, where they feed on insects and enjoy berries such as serviceberry and magnolia.
Listen to the captivating song of the American Redstart:
Credit: Nick Kiehl, XC522368. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/522368.
Nests of American Redstarts are located close to the trunk of trees or large shrubs. Constructed using bark, grass, and other plant materials, the nests provide a secure foundation for their eggs. American Redstarts lay up to five eggs, which hatch after approximately eleven days, and the young birds leave the nest within a week or two.
To attract American Redstarts to your backyard during winter, offer them suet or create a habitat with berry plants such as magnolia.
Fun Fact: American Redstart parents exhibit an interesting feeding behavior. Rather than feeding all the chicks indiscriminately, they selectively feed certain individuals. This behavior is known as facultative brood reduction.
10. Nashville Warbler
Nashville Warblers can be spotted in British Columbia during the summer months, primarily in the southern regions of the province. They appear in around 3% of checklists during this time, making a charming addition to the avian community.
These warblers showcase predominantly yellow plumage, complemented by a green back and a gray head with a white eye-ring. Females and juveniles possess a slightly less vibrant appearance compared to the males. They display a distinct white belly between their yellow breasts and under their tails.
- Leiothlypis ruficapilla
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.5 ounces (6.7-13.9 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed in northeastern US states and Canada, with a smaller population found in northwestern US states and British Columbia. During migration, they can be observed in various locations across the United States.
These delightful warblers can be found in scrubby habitats, low deciduous forests, and other similar environments, where they actively search for insects as their primary source of food.
Listen to the charming song of the Nashville Warbler:
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC512262. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/512262.
Nests of Nashville Warblers are typically located close to the ground, constructed with bark, moss, grass, and woven into a cup shape. The nests are then lined with pine needles, soft grass, and animal hair. The female lays around five eggs, and the incubation period lasts approximately eleven days. After hatching, the young birds spend an additional ten days in the nest before venturing out into the world.
To attract Nashville Warblers to your backyard during the winter months in southern US states, providing suet can be an effective way to entice them.
Fun Fact: The Nashville Warbler’s migratory pattern is quite fascinating. During their initial migration, they follow the Atlantic Coast. However, in subsequent migrations, they opt for an inland route instead.
11. Northern Waterthrush
During the summer months, Northern Waterthrushes grace the landscapes of British Columbia, making appearances on approximately 3% of checklists. Their visitation period spans from May to mid-September.
Northern Waterthrushes are sizeable avian creatures resembling thrushes, and both males and females exhibit similar characteristics. They sport brown heads adorned with thick white eyebrows, dark brown backs, and white bellies patterned with dark, prominent streaks extending from their throats all the way to their rumps.
- Scientific Name: Parkesia noveboracensis
- Length: 5.75 inches (15 cm)
- Weight: 0.8 oz (23 g)
- Wingspan: 8.75 inches (22 cm)
Breeding primarily occurs in Canada, Alaska, and northeastern states of the US before embarking on migratory journeys to Mexico, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. Some individuals opt to remain in Central and South America throughout the entire year.
Northern Waterthrushes can be found in dimly lit, woody swamps, thickets, and bogs. If there happens to be stagnant or sluggish water in the vicinity, chances are high that a Northern Waterthrush will be in close proximity. During winter in tropical regions, they are typically spotted amidst mangroves.
These waterthrushes possess both aquatic and terrestrial foraging habits. With their elongated legs, they possess the ability to tread upon shallow water surfaces while in pursuit of water beetles, mosquitoes, slugs, crustaceans, snails, and occasionally small fish. Additionally, they feed on caterpillars, moths, and ants, often uncovering them beneath leaves.
The melodious song of the Northern Waterthrush can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
When it comes to nesting, Northern Waterthrushes typically seek out hollows or crevices in close proximity to water bodies. Moss-covered stumps or sheltered spots beneath protruding banks are often chosen, with nests frequently concealed among ferns. Constructed from moss, twigs, pine needles, bark strips, and roots, the female takes on the responsibility of building the nest. She lays three to six eggs and single-handedly incubates them for roughly two weeks.
Interesting Fact: Northern Waterthrushes exhibit a preference for walking rather than hopping along the ground. While traversing, they bob their tails, creating an impression of imbalance.
12. Tennessee Warbler
From May to September, Tennessee Warblers can predominantly be sighted in British Columbia, occupying approximately 1% of summer checklists.
Male Tennessee Warblers possess gray heads, green backs, and pale whitish underbellies. Females exhibit a greener appearance with yellow undersides and green heads. Males boast a white eyestripe, while females display a yellow eyestripe. Both genders have white undertails.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis peregrina
- Length: 3.9-5.1 inches (10-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (8-10 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.9 inches (19-20 cm)
Tennessee Warblers embark on lengthy migratory journeys from Central America to Canada, making stopovers during migration across the eastern regions of the United States.
These warblers are frequently observed feeding on caterpillars that dwell amidst trees and shrubs within woodland areas.
The melodious song of the Tennessee Warbler can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Tennessee Warblers are concealed within moss or tree roots and are constructed using grass and weeds. It takes approximately twelve days for the eggs to hatch, with another twelve days for the fledglings to leave the nest.
Interesting Fact: Despite their name, Tennessee Warblers do not spend a significant amount of time breeding or residing in Tennessee. They acquired their name due to the location of their initial spotting and subsequent nomenclature.
13. Magnolia Warbler
Magnolia Warblers can be spotted in British Columbia during summer, primarily from May to October, with their peak presence occurring in June and July.
Male Magnolia Warblers exhibit a black hue on their backs and yellow undersides. They possess black streaks forming a “necklace” encircling their necks and extending down their bellies. In contrast, females possess grayer backs and lack the distinctive streaking along the belly.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga magnolia
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.5 oz (6-15 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 inches (16-20 cm)
Magnolia Warblers breed across Canada and northeastern states of the US. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern regions of the United States. For the winter season, they migrate to Central America, the Caribbean, and northern regions of South America.
Magnolia Warblers prefer habitats consisting of low branches within forests or parks, which makes it easier to spot them during their migratory journeys. Their diet primarily consists of insects and spiders.
The melodious song of the Magnolia Warbler can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Magnolia Warblers are loosely constructed using grass and weeds, situated close to the trunk of coniferous trees. They lay approximately four eggs, which take around twelve days to hatch, with an additional nine days for the young to leave the nest.
Interesting Fact: To attract females and ward off rivals, Magnolia Warblers flaunt the white spots on their tails.
14. Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chats are typically found in the southern regions of British Columbia during the summer season.
These chats possess vibrant yellow breasts and long tails. Their backs showcase an olive-gray hue, while their heads exhibit gray coloration with distinct white markings around the eyes and chin. Their lower bellies are white.
- Scientific Name: Icteria virens
- Length: 7.1 inches (18 cm)
- Weight: 0.8-1.1 oz (23-31 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8 inches (25 cm)
Yellow-breasted Chats breed across numerous US states, extending slightly into southern regions of Canada. During winter, they migrate to Central America and coastal areas of Mexico.
Yellow-breasted Chats can be found foraging on spiders, insects, and berries within blackberry bushes, fields, and forest edges.
The melodious song of the Yellow-breasted Chat can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Yellow-breasted Chats are hidden within shrubs and are constructed using grass, leaves, and other plant materials woven into a cup shape. These nests are often targeted by Brown-headed Cowbirds, which lay their eggs within them. Yellow-breasted Chats lay up to six eggs, which take approximately eleven days to hatch, followed by up to ten days for the young to fledge.
Interesting Fact: Male Yellow-breasted Chats engage in grappling fights using their feet, accompanied by dramatic flight displays featuring singing and descending towards the ground, concluding with a wing thump.
15. Ovenbird
Ovenbirds can be found in northeastern regions of British Columbia during the summer season, primarily from May to September, particularly in the northeast parts of the province.
Ovenbirds possess drab appearances compared to other warbler species, with their olive-green backs and black-and-white spotted undersides.
- Scientific Name: Seiurus aurocapilla
- Length: 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-1.0 oz (16-28 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-10.2 inches (19-26 cm)
Ovenbirds breed in northeastern states of the US and Canada, including the Midwest and northwestern regions of Canada. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern US. For the winter season, they migrate to Florida, Mexico, Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
Ovenbirds can be found rummaging through leaf litter on the ground within forests, as they search for insects.
The melodious song of the Ovenbird can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Ovenbirds are typically located on the ground, with the female constructing a domed structure using leaves, grass, bark, and other plant materials. The nest features a side entrance and is lined with animal hair. They lay around five eggs, which incubate for approximately two weeks, followed by an additional ten days for the young to leave the nest.
Interesting Fact: Ovenbirds acquired their name due to the unique shape of their nests, resembling a Dutch oven.
16. Black-and-white Warbler
Black-and-white Warblers can be observed in the northeastern regions of British Columbia during the summer season, particularly in June.
Black-and-white Warblers possess distinctive appearances, with their striped patterns. Males exhibit a large black patch across their eyes and cheeks, with a darker black coloration compared to females.
- Scientific Name: Mniotilta varia
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (8-15 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed in the eastern parts of the United States and Canada. For the winter season, they migrate to Florida, the Gulf Coast, Mexico, Baja California, the Caribbean, and northern regions of South America. During migration, they can be observed in central regions of the US.
Black-and-white Warblers can be spotted hopping up and down on tree trunks and branches within forests, as they search for insects.
The melodious song of the Black-and-white Warbler can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Black-and-white Warblers are usually hidden close to the ground, often beneath logs or shrubs. The nest is constructed using bark, grass, and pine needles, woven into a cup shape. They lay around five eggs, which take approximately eleven days to hatch, followed by an additional ten days for the young to leave the nest.
17. Blackpoll Warbler
Blackpoll Warblers, classified as near-threatened species, can be observed in British Columbia during the summer season, spanning from May to September.
Male Blackpoll Warblers exhibit black-and-white streaks across their bodies, with a black cap and white cheeks. Females showcase similar black-and-white patterns but lack the black cap and white cheeks.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga striata
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (12-13 g)
- Wingspan: 8.3-9.1 inches (21-23 cm)
Blackpoll Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northeastern states of the US. During migration, they can be observed across the eastern regions of the US. For the winter season, they migrate to northern regions of South America and the Caribbean.
Blackpoll Warblers primarily forage in trees, capturing insects as they fly or plucking them from foliage.
The melodious song of the Blackpoll Warbler can be enjoyed at this link: [Insert link to audio file]
Nests of Blackpoll Warblers are constructed on tree branches, using a combination of twigs, grass, and bark, lined with feathers, animal hair, and plant down. They lay around four eggs, which incubate for approximately two weeks, followed by an additional ten days for the young to leave the nest.
Interesting Fact: Blackpoll Warblers undertake one of the longest migratory journeys of any songbird, flying nonstop for up to three days across the Atlantic Ocean during their fall migration to reach South America.
To attract these warblers to your yard, it’s important to provide a suitable habitat with the right food sources and shelter. Here are some tips:
- Plant Native Trees and Shrubs: Choose a variety of native trees and shrubs that provide food in the form of berries, fruits, and insects. Examples include oak trees, dogwood, serviceberry, and elderberry.
- Create Layers and Diverse Vegetation: Plant different layers of vegetation, such as tall trees, understory shrubs, and groundcover plants. This provides a diverse habitat and encourages a variety of insects, which warblers feed on.
- Provide a Water Source: Include a birdbath or a shallow water feature in your yard. Warblers, especially Northern Waterthrushes, are attracted to areas with stagnant or sluggish water.
- Avoid Pesticides: Minimize the use of pesticides in your yard, as they can harm the insects that warblers rely on for food. Opt for natural pest control methods or create a balanced ecosystem to control pests.
- Offer Nesting Sites: Maintain natural areas or provide birdhouses that mimic the preferred nesting conditions for warblers. Different warbler species have specific nesting preferences, so research their nesting habits for optimal placement.
- Minimize Outdoor Cats: Keep outdoor cats indoors or create a cat-proof enclosure to reduce the risk of predation on warblers and other birds.
7. Provide Shelter: Incorporate dense shrubs and evergreen trees in your yard to provide shelter and protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
By creating a welcoming habitat with suitable food sources, water, and nesting sites, you can increase the chances of attracting warbler species to your yard.