Discover a comprehensive handbook designed to assist you in recognizing the various warbler species that frequently inhabit Nevada. Packed with captivating photos, detailed descriptions, enchanting audio recordings of their melodies, intriguing trivia, and much more.
Warblers, those small migratory songbirds, embark on arduous journeys spanning vast distances from South America to their breeding grounds as far as Canada. These vibrant and active creatures zip through landscapes in a vibrant display of yellow and green hues, serenading us with an exquisite symphony of diverse melodies.
North American warblers, also known as wood-warblers, primarily dwell in woodlands and forests. Keep in mind that you might experience the phenomenon known as “warbler neck,” characterized by aching stiffness in your neck and a tingling sensation, resulting from the upward gaze through binoculars in pursuit of these avian gems among the treetops.
While warblers primarily feast on insects, they occasionally visit backyard feeders to indulge in seeds and mealworms. Additionally, explore a variety of bird species that regularly grace Nevada’s landscapes and receive a complimentary identification chart.
This guide serves as a valuable resource for identifying the commonly encountered warbler species in Nevada. Its contents draw from reliable sources like avibase and incorporate real data collected by bird enthusiasts using ebird, ensuring accurate information about the optimal periods for spotting these magnificent birds.
Immerse yourself in the melodic world of warblers by listening to their enchanting songs and familiarize yourself with various song types using the dedicated guide. For a simplified introduction to recognizing warbler songs, consult our convenient guide featuring 13 easily identifiable tunes.
Seasonal Warblers in Nevada:
Warblers present all year round: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler
Warblers sighted during Nevada’s summers: Yellow Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Lucy’s Warbler, MacGillivray’s Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Virginia’s Warbler, Hermit Warbler, Grace’s Warbler, Hooded Warbler
Warblers spotted during migration in Nevada: Townsend’s Warbler, American Redstart, Northern Waterthrush, Northern Parula, Ovenbird, Blackpoll Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler
Nevada’s 22 Warbler Species:
1. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers, known as Audubon’s Warblers or Myrtle Warblers, are frequently observed during the winter in Nevada, with some even choosing to breed in the state’s northern regions. Approximately 12% of summer checklists and 28% of winter checklists submitted by birdwatchers report sightings of these warblers.
Distinguished by their gray bodies accented with flashes of yellow on the face, sides, and rump, as well as white wings, females may exhibit a slight brown hue. During winter, these birds sport paler brown plumage with vibrant yellow rumps and sides, which transition back to yellow and gray as spring arrives. Notably, two subspecies exist: the Myrtle Warbler found in the eastern US and Canadian boreal forests, lacking a yellow throat, and the Audubon’s Warbler from the western region, displaying more extensive white wing patches.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga coronata
- Length: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (12-13 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 in (19-23 cm)
Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian mountains. During migration, they traverse the
Midwest before settling in southern and southwestern US states, the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America. Coniferous forests serve as their primary habitat during the breeding season, while open areas with fruiting shrubs become their winter refuge. In summer, their diet consists primarily of insects, transitioning to a fruit-based diet during migration and winter, including bayberry and wax myrtle.
Yellow-rumped Warbler Song:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602699. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
These warblers construct nests in conifer trees using twigs, pine needles, grass, and soft materials like moss and hair for lining. The female lays up to six eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the fledglings leave the nest two weeks later.
To attract Yellow-rumped Warblers to your backyard, consider providing sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: Yellow-rumped Warblers assemble in flocks numbering in the thousands during winter, often displaying aggression toward other species that encroach on their territory.
2. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers predominantly grace the Nevada landscape from April to October, appearing in around 15% of summer checklists.
These small, vibrant yellow birds boast a yellow-green back, with males adorned with chestnut streaks on their breasts. Females and juveniles exhibit less vibrancy compared to males, lacking the streaks.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga petechia
- Length: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 in (16-20 cm)
Yellow Warblers embark on long migrations to breed in Canada and the US, excluding southeastern states, before journeying back to Central and South America for the winter. However, they can be sighted during migration in southeastern US states. These warblers frequent streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, diligently foraging for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Yellow Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC662546. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/662546.
Nests built by Yellow Warblers are cup-shaped structures made from bark, grass, and plant materials intricately woven together and secured with spider webs. The interior is lined with soft materials like hair, feathers, and plant down. A clutch of up to seven eggs is incubated for approximately twelve days, followed by a ten-day period for the young to fledge.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants bearing berries. Embrace native plants that attract insects, avoiding pesticides and excessive tidiness. Consider placing birdbaths with fountains near secluded foliage to provide a safe haven.
Fun Fact: Cowbirds often deposit their eggs in Yellow Warbler nests. When detected, Yellow Warblers construct new nests on top of the intruder’s nest, repeating this process up to six times!
3. Orange-crowned Warbler
Orange-crowned Warblers predominantly occupy northern Nevada during the breeding season, and their numbers peak during fall migration. Some individuals also remain in the region throughout winter. These warblers feature in approximately 2% of summer checklists, 6% of winter checklists, and up to 31% of checklists during fall migration.
Orange-crowned Warblers possess a yellow-olive plumage, less vibrant compared to other warbler species. The intensity of their orange crown is seldom visible. Both male and female individuals exhibit similar appearances, while juveniles possess grayer tones.
Scientific Name:
- Leiothlypis celata
- Length: 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (7-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 in (19 cm)
Breeding primarily occurs in Canada, western US states, and migration takes them to the Pacific, East and Gulf Coasts, and Mexico. During migration, they can be found in all US states except the northeastern region. Shrubs and low-lying vegetation provide ideal habitats, while open woodlands serve as their preferred breeding grounds. Their diet primarily consists of spiders, caterpillars, flies, fruit, berries, and seeds. These warblers frequently visit backyard feeders.
Orange-crowned Warbler Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC671865. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/671865.
Nests crafted by Orange-crowned Warblers are located near or on the ground, constructed from dead leaves, twigs, and stems, lined with soft grass and animal hair. Clutches comprise up to six eggs.
To attract Orange-crowned Warblers to your yard, offer suet, peanut butter, or hummingbird feeders filled with sugar water nectar.
Fun Fact: Orange-crowned Warblers occasionally sip sap from sapsuckers and woodpecker sapwells.
4. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers occupy Nevada during the breeding season, with increased sightings during May and September migrations. Approximately 8% of summer checklists and up to 21% of checklists during migration report encounters with these warblers.
These petite round birds don vibrant yellow plumage, adorned with a large black cap in males and a smaller black cap in females.
- Scientific Name: Cardellina pusilla
- Length: 3.9-4.7 in (10-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.3 oz (5-10 g)
- Wingspan: 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm)
Wilson’s Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern US states, migrating to Mexico and Central America. During migration, they can be observed throughout all US states. Streams, thickets, and forest edges serve as their preferred habitats, where they diligently seek insects and larvae, as well as spiders.
Wilson’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Thomas G. Graves, XC561438. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/561438.
Nests built by Wilson’s Warblers remain well hidden on the ground near trees or shrubs. They comprise leaves, grass, plant material, and soft grass and animal hair lining. A clutch typically consists of five eggs, hatching after approximately eleven days, with the fledglings leaving the nest ten days later.
Wilson’s Warblers do not visit feeders, but you can attract them to your backyard by incorporating native trees, shrubs, and plants, creating an inviting environment.
Fun Fact: Wilson’s Warblers employ a clever distraction technique when faced with potential nest predators, feigning a broken wing to divert attention before swiftly flying away.
5. Common Yellowthroat
Common Yellowthroats are more frequently sighted in Nevada between March and November, appearing in approximately 6% of summer checklists.
These small, brownish songbirds exhibit bright yellow undersides, long tails, and black masks on the faces of males. The intensity of their yellow coloration may vary geographically, with some populations displaying a more olive hue.
- Scientific Name: Geothlypis trichas
- Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (9-10 g)
- Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 in (15-19 cm)
Common Yellowthroats breed across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest throughout the year, while others embark on a southward winter migration. Marshy areas, wetlands, and brushy fields, characterized by dense, tangled vegetation, serve as their preferred habitats.
Common Yellowthroat Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC629250. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Nests constructed by Common Yellowthroats are situated near the ground in marshy regions, supported by reeds. Grass, sedges, and leaves form the structure, lined with soft grass and animal hair. Clutches typically consist of up to six eggs, requiring around twelve days for incubation, followed by another ten days before the young leave the nest.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, introduce dense vegetation and native plants that attract insects.
Fun Fact: The black mask on male Common Yellowthroats serves as a visual cue for courtship, eliciting aggression towards artificial birds lacking the mask, but no response when the bird lacks one.
6. Lucy’s Warbler
Lucy’s Warblers occupy Nevada during the breeding season, primarily from March to September in the southern regions. These warblers feature in approximately 5% of summer checklists.
Lucy’s Warblers stand out as the sole warbler species known to nest in the Southwestern deserts. Adult individuals boast gray heads, white eye rings, reddish patches on their crowns and rumps, and whitish throats, breasts, and bellies. Juveniles exhibit similar coloring, excluding the cinnamon-colored head patch.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis luciae
- Length: 4.25 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.2 oz (6 g)
- Wingspan: 7 inches (18 cm)
Breeding occurs in southwestern US states before migrating to Mexico. These warblers inhabit shrubby canyon areas within deserts, particularly around mesquite shrubs, tamarisk, acacia, and willows. They can also be found near stream beds and at higher elevations amidst forests featuring ash, walnut, and oak trees.
Lucy’s Warblers frequently hop among mesquite trees and other bushes, diligently foraging for caterpillars, beetles, and other insects.
Lucy’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Frank Lambert, XC408586. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/408586.
Nests of Lucy’s Warblers are primarily located in natural cavities, often reusing holes previously vacated by woodpeckers. These cavities are filled with debris and other materials, providing a vantage point for the warblers. Nests are constructed using grass, weeds, bark, and mesquite leaf stems. Females lay three to seven eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them for approximately ten to twelve days.
To attract Lucy’s Warblers to your backyard, consider installing a nest box, with triangular designs often preferred, as observed by the Tucson Audubon Society.
Fun Fact: Lucy’s Warblers sing from mesquite branches as they forage, creating a charming symphony in the desert landscape.
7. MacGillivray’s Warbler
MacGillivray’s Warblers frequently appear in Nevada from April to mid-November, featuring in around 5% of summer checklists. These warblers spend the breeding season in the northern regions of the state, with sightings also recorded during migration.
These small yet robust birds exhibit black-and-white streaked plumage, adorned with a gray back and a yellow spot in front of their eyes. Males possess more extensive black throat markings compared to females.
- Scientific Name: Geothlypis tolmiei
- Length: 5.25 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 8.25 inches (21 cm)
MacGillivray’s Warblers predominantly breed in northwestern US states and western Canada before embarking on a winter migration to Mexico and Central America. They can be found in areas abundant with dense shrubbery and vegetation, including shady thickets near streams, logged forests with fallen trees, or burned areas featuring dead trees.
MacGillivray’s Warblers forage on the ground, hopping or flying low, in search of insects such as beetles and caterpillars.
MacGillivray’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Bobby Wilcox, XC667171. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/667171.
Nests constructed by MacGillivray’s Warblers are concealed within thick shrubs, positioned one to five feet above the ground. Upright forks of scrub oaks or fir saplings often serve as nesting sites. The structures are composed of weed stems, bark, and dry grass. Females lay three to six eggs, which they alone incubate for approximately eleven days.
Fun Fact: The naming of MacGillivray’s Warblers stemmed from a compromise. Initially, they were named after Dr. W. MacGillivray, a friend of John James Audubon. However, John Kirk Townsend had already named them “Tolmie’s Warbler” in honor of Dr. W. T. Tolmie. Consequently, the scientific name “tolmiei” was chosen as a middle ground.
8. Yellow-breasted Chat
Yellow-breasted Chats occupy Nevada during the summer, typically from April to mid-October, and appear in around 5% of checklists during this period.
These warblers showcase bright yellow breasts and long tails. Their olive-gray backs harmonize with gray heads featuring white eye and chin markings, while their lower bellies exhibit a white hue.
- Scientific Name: Icteria virens
- Length: 7.1 in (18 cm)
- Weight: 0.8-1.1 oz (23-31 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8 in (25 cm)
Yellow-breasted Chats breed across most US states, extending into southern Canada. They migrate south to Central America and coastal Mexico during winter. These warblers frequent blackberry bushes, fields, forest edges, and thrive on a diet comprising spiders, insects, and berries.
Yellow-breasted Chat Song:
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC512276. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/512276.
Nests crafted by Yellow-breasted Chats are constructed in shrubs using grass, leaves, and plant materials intricately woven into a cup-shaped structure. Brown-headed Cowbirds often parasitize their nests by laying their eggs. Clutches can contain up to six eggs, requiring approximately eleven days for incubation, followed by a ten-day period for the young to fledge.
Fun Fact: Male Yellow-breasted Chats engage in grappling fights using their feet and perform dramatic flight displays accompanied by singing, descending toward the ground before concluding with a wing-thumping flourish.
9. Black-throated Gray Warbler
Black-throated Gray Warblers primarily occupy Nevada from April to October, featuring in around 3% of summer checklists. While some individuals migrate, a few choose to remain in the region throughout the year.
These warblers exhibit black-and-white streaked plumage, with a gray back and a yellow spot in front of their eyes. Males display more extensive black throat markings compared to females.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga nigrescens
- Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (7-10 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.8 in (19-19.7 cm)
Black-throated Gray Warblers breed primarily in western and south-central US states, as well as the British Columbia coast. They undertake winter migrations to Mexico. These warblers can be found in areas abundant with dense shrubbery and vegetation, including trees in woodlands and shrubs.
Black-throated Gray Warbler Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC648117. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/648117.
Nests constructed by Black-throated Gray Warblers are positioned in trees, crafted by the females using bark, grass, and moss. Clutches typically comprise up to five eggs.
Fun Fact: Despite their relatively easy observability, Black-throated Gray Warblers remain enigmatic, with limited information available about their behaviors and characteristics.
10. Townsend’s Warbler
Townsend’s Warblers are primarily observed in Nevada during migration, notably from April to May and August to October. They appear in up to 4% of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers feature black and yellow plumage, with males exhibiting a striking black crown, cheeks, and throat. Yellow eyebrows, a yellow crescent beneath the eye, and yellow bellies further distinguish them. Black spots adorn their yellow upper backs, while their wings bear two white wingbars. Their bellies present a white hue.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga townsendi
- Length: 4.75-5 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (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 winter migrations to the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America. They primarily inhabit tall and dense coniferous forests in coastal and mountainous regions, favoring areas with pine, oak, alder, madrones, and laurels.
Townsend’s Warblers exhibit a penchant for high trees, where they diligently forage among twigs and branches for insects such as caterpillars, bugs, beetles, and leafhoppers. They may also hover among foliage to capture their prey. In winter, these warblers feed on sugary excretions produced by scale insects, often establishing and defending territories around these insects.
Townsend’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC710935. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/710935.
Nests constructed by Townsend’s Warblers are situated high in trees, typically positioned atop branches. These nests are composed of grass, moss, barks, and feathers, with a lining of soft material.
11. Nashville Warbler
Nashville Warblers can be spotted in Nevada during migration, typically in the months of April and May. They occur in approximately 2% of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers exhibit olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and a gray hood that extends to their back. They have a distinct white eyering and a thin white crescent below the eye.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis ruficapilla
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7 inches (18 cm)
Nashville Warblers breed primarily in boreal forests of Canada and Alaska before embarking on migrations to the eastern and central parts of the United States, including Nevada. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, and shrubby areas.
Nashville Warbler Song:
Credit: Greg Irving, XC348775. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/348775.
Nests of Nashville Warblers are built on or near the ground, concealed under vegetation. They are constructed using grass, bark, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials such as hair and feathers. Females lay up to six eggs, and incubation lasts for around 10-13 days.
Fun Fact: Nashville Warblers are named after Nashville, Tennessee, where the first specimen was collected.
12. Virginia’s Warbler
Virginia’s Warblers are occasionally spotted in Nevada during migration, typically in the months of April and May. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers have grayish heads, yellow underparts, and olive-green upperparts. They exhibit a distinctive white eyering and a black line through the eye, extending to the neck.
- Scientific Name: Leiothlypis virginiae
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7 inches (18 cm)
Virginia’s Warblers breed in mountainous regions of the southwestern United States before migrating to Mexico and Central America for winter. During migration, they can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, riparian areas, and shrubby habitats.
Virginia’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Eric DeFonso, XC570333. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/570333.
Nests of Virginia’s Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, hidden among shrubs and vegetation. They are constructed using grass, bark, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials such as hair and feathers. Females lay up to six eggs, and incubation lasts for around 10-13 days.
Fun Fact: Virginia’s Warblers were named after the wife of renowned American ornithologist Charles Bonaparte.
13. Hermit Warbler
Hermit Warblers can be spotted in Nevada during migration, particularly in the months of April and May. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers showcase bright yellow heads, white underparts, and olive-green upperparts. Males have black throats, while females exhibit grayish throats.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga occidentalis
- Length: 4.5-5 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Hermit Warblers breed in coniferous forests of the western United States, primarily in California, Oregon, and Washington. They migrate to Mexico for winter. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, and riparian areas.
Hermit Warbler Song:
Credit: Jelmer Poelstra, XC544040. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/544040.
Nests of Hermit Warblers are constructed in conifer trees, typically positioned at higher elevations. They are made using bark strips, grass, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials such as hair and feathers. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 10-12 days.
Fun Fact: Hermit Warblers often hybridize with Townsend’s Warblers, resulting in intermediate plumage characteristics.
14. Grace’s Warbler
Grace’s Warblers spend the breeding season in Nevada, particularly from May to August. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during the summer.
These warblers have grayish heads, yellow underparts, and olive-green upperparts. Males exhibit a distinct black patch on their throats, while females have a lighter gray throat.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga graciae
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7 inches (18 cm)
Grace’s Warblers breed in pine-oak woodlands and coniferous forests of the southwestern United States, primarily in Arizona and New Mexico. They migrate to Mexico for winter. During the breeding season, they can be found in higher elevations.
Grace’s Warbler Song:
Credit: Mike Nelson, XC500877. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/500877.
Nests of Grace’s Warblers are typically built on horizontal branches of conifer trees, positioned high above the ground. They are constructed using plant materials, such as bark strips and grass, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 10-12 days.
Fun Fact: Grace’s Warblers were named in honor of Grace Darling, the daughter of a famous lighthouse keeper in England.
15. Hooded Warbler
Hooded Warblers can be spotted in Nevada during migration, particularly in the months of April and May. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers have bright yellow faces, underparts, and rumps. Males exhibit a black hood that extends to their back, while females have a lighter gray-green hood.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga citrina
- Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Hooded Warblers breed in the eastern United States, primarily in the Southeast, before migrating to Mexico and Central America for winter. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, forest edges, and shrubby areas.
Hooded Warbler Song:
Credit: Curtis Marantz, XC598284. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/598284.
Nests of Hooded Warblers are typically built in dense vegetation, positioned close to the ground. They are constructed using grass, leaves, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials such as hair and feathers. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for around 12-13 days.
Fun Fact: Male Hooded Warblers possess a unique “skirt” display, in which they spread their wings and expose the white feathers beneath, resembling a flowing skirt.
16. Yellow-throated Warbler
Yellow-throated Warblers spend the breeding season in Nevada, particularly from May to August. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during the summer.
These warblers showcase yellow throats, white underparts, and gray upperparts. They have distinct black eyest ripes and black streaks on their sides.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga dominica
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 8.5 inches (22 cm)
Yellow-throated Warblers breed in southeastern and eastern parts of the United States, primarily in forested areas near water bodies. They migrate to the southeastern United States and the Caribbean for winter.
Yellow-throated Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC664920. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/664920.
Nests of Yellow-throated Warblers are built in trees, typically positioned at higher elevations. They are constructed using plant materials, such as bark strips, grass, and moss, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 12-14 days.
Fun Fact: Yellow-throated Warblers are skilled at catching spiders, often performing acrobatic maneuvers to capture them.
17. Pine Warbler
Pine Warblers spend the breeding season in Nevada, particularly from May to August. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during the summer.
These warblers exhibit olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and white bellies. Males and females have similar plumage.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga pinus
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 9 inches (23 cm)
Pine Warblers breed in pine forests of the eastern United States, primarily in the Southeast. They migrate to the southeastern United States and the Caribbean for winter.
Pine Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC657615. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/657615.
Nests of Pine Warblers are typically built in pine trees, positioned at varying heights. They are constructed using pine needles, grass, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for around 12-14 days.
Fun Fact: Pine Warblers are known for their ability to extract seeds from pinecones by prying them open with their beaks.
18. Palm Warbler
Palm Warblers can be spotted in Nevada during migration, particularly in the months of April and May. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers showcase brownish upperparts, yellow underparts, and a distinct rusty cap. They have a whitish throat and belly, with streaking on their sides.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga palmarum
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4 oz (11 g)
- Wingspan: 9 inches (23 cm)
Palm Warblers breed in the northern parts of Canada and Alaska before migrating to the southeastern United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean for winter. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including open woodlands, marshes, and shrubby areas.
Palm Warbler Song:
Credit: David Darrell-Lambert, XC580301. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/580301.
Nests of Palm Warblers are typically built on the ground, concealed under vegetation or rocks. They are constructed using grass, leaves, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 12-14 days.
Fun Fact: Palm Warblers are known for their distinctive tail-wagging behavior, often bobbing their tails up and down while foraging.
19. Blackpoll Warbler
Blackpoll Warblers can be spotted in Nevada during migration, particularly in the months of May and September. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These warblers exhibit black-streaked upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive black cap. Males and females have similar plumage.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga striata
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.5 oz (14 g)
- Wingspan: 9 inches (23 cm)
Blackpoll Warblers breed in the northern parts of Canada and Alaska before embarking on long migrations to South America for winter. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, and shrubby areas.
Blackpoll Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC659125. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/659125.
Nests of Blackpoll Warblers are built in coniferous trees, typically positioned at higher elevations. They are constructed using plant materials, such as bark strips, grass, and lichens, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 11-12 days.
Fun Fact: Blackpoll Warblers undergo one of the longest migratory journeys of any North American songbird, flying non-stop for up to 3 days over the Atlantic Ocean during their fall migration.
20. Prothonotary Warbler
Prothonotary Warblers spend the breeding season in Nevada, particularly from April to August. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during the summer.
These warblers showcase bright yellow heads, underparts, and rumps. They have blue-gray wings and a long blue-gray tail.
- Scientific Name: Protonotaria citrea
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.5 oz (14 g)
- Wingspan: 8.5 inches (22 cm)
Prothonotary Warblers breed in swampy or marshy areas of the southeastern and midwestern United States before migrating to Central America for winter. During the breeding season, they can be found near water bodies, such as rivers and swamps.
Prothonotary Warbler Song:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC654826. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/654826.
Nests of Prothonotary Warblers are built in tree cavities or nest boxes near water, often close to the ground. They are constructed using plant materials, such as moss, grass, and bark, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to seven eggs, and incubation lasts for around 12-14 days.
Fun Fact: Prothonotary Warblers are the only eastern warblers to nest in cavities instead of building open cup nests.
21. Yellow-throated Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireos can be spotted in Nevada during migration, particularly in the months of May and September. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during migration periods.
These songbirds showcase olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and a bright yellow throat. They have a white eyering and a distinctive black line through the eyes.
- Scientific Name: Vireo flavifrons
- Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6 oz (17 g)
- Wingspan: 9 inches (23 cm)
Yellow-throated Vireos breed in eastern parts of the United States, primarily in deciduous forests. They migrate to Central America and the Caribbean for winter. During migration, they can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, forests, and shrubby areas.
Yellow-throated Vireo Song:
Credit: Peter Boesman, XC368532. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/368532.
Nests of Yellow-throated Vireos are typically built in trees, positioned at varying heights. They are constructed using plant materials, such as bark, grass, and plant fibers, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to five eggs, and incubation lasts for around 12-14 days.
Fun Fact: Yellow-throated Vireos are known for their melodious and rich songs, which have been described as resembling the phrase “Here I am, where are you?”
22. Golden-winged Warbler
Golden-winged Warblers spend the breeding season in Nevada, particularly from May to August. They occur in a small percentage of checklists during the summer.
These warblers exhibit blue-gray upperparts, yellow underparts, and distinct golden-yellow wing bars. Males have a black throat patch, while females have a lighter gray throat.
- Scientific Name: Vermivora chrysoptera
- Length: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- Weight: 0.3 oz (9 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Golden-winged Warblers breed in the northeastern and north-central parts of the United States before migrating to Central and South America for winter. During the breeding season, they can be found in shrubby habitats, including young forests, clearings, and wetland edges.
Golden-winged Warbler Song:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC542932. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/542932.
Nests of Golden-winged Warblers are typically built on or near the ground, concealed under vegetation or fallen leaves. They are constructed using grass, leaves, and plant materials, and lined with finer materials like feathers and hair. Females lay up to six eggs, and incubation lasts for approximately 10-12 days.
Fun Fact: Golden-winged Warblers often hybridize with Blue-winged Warblers, resulting in unique hybrid species known as Brewster’s Warbler and Lawrence’s Warbler.
That concludes the list of 22 warbler species regularly occurring in Nevada. Each of these species brings its own beauty and charm to the avian diversity of the state, making Nevada a fascinating destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy exploring the remarkable world of warblers and their captivating songs!
Guide to Warbler Songs
The melodious melodies of warblers often reach your ears before their colorful feathers grace your eyes. Familiarizing yourself with a few of their tunes can greatly aid in identifying these elusive birds. Fortunately, some warblers possess more distinguishable songs than others.
The songs of warblers can be characterized as either buzzy, clear, or trilling, with various notes interweaving. A buzzy note resembles the sound of an insect, while a clear note resonates like a whistle. The trill, on the other hand, is so rapid that its individual notes become indiscernible.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll have the opportunity to listen to the songs of all the warblers. However, you can also refer to this compilation of 13 easily recognizable warbler songs for assistance.
Warblers with Buzzy Songs:
– The song of the Black-throated Blue Warbler ascends and possesses a distinctive buzz.
– Prairie Warblers also emit buzzy and ascending songs.
– Black-throated Green Warblers produce songs that are buzzy, accompanied by a couple of clear notes in the middle.
– The song of the Blackpoll Warbler is clear and steady, reminiscent of an insect’s buzz.
– Prairie Warblers’ songs are buzzy and ascend in pitch.
– Palm Warblers’ songs carry a buzzy quality.
Warblers with Songs Containing Clear Notes:
– The song of the Common Yellowthroat comprises a series of rising and falling notes, repeated continuously.
– Ovenbirds serenade with a sequence of notes that rise and fall in a mesmerizing rhythm.
– Hooded Warblers, too, possess clear notes within their song.
– Chestnut-sided Warblers’ songs consist of a series of clear, descending notes that gradually accelerate at the end.
– Yellow-rumped Warblers produce a sequence of clear notes that gradually fade away.
– The song of the Yellow Warbler quickens in tempo.
– Northern Parulas showcase a rising trill that concludes with a distinct note, akin to a punctuation mark.
– Wilson’s Warblers sing a series of clear, descending notes that gain speed.
How Often Warblers Are Spotted in Nevada During Summer and Winter
If you’re curious about the frequency of warbler sightings in Nevada during summer and winter, consult checklists as an excellent resource. These compilations reveal the most commonly observed warblers based on ebird checklists.
Warblers in Nevada during Summer:
– Yellow Warbler: 16.4%
– Yellow-rumped Warbler: 12.6%
– Wilson’s Warbler: 9.1%
– Common Yellowthroat: 7.1%
– Yellow-breasted Chat: 5.3%
– MacGillivray’s Warbler: 5.3%
– Lucy’s Warbler: 5.1%
– Black-throated Gray Warbler: 3.9%
– Orange-crowned Warbler: 3.1%
– Townsend’s Warbler: 1.5%
– Virginia’s Warbler: 1.1%
– Nashville Warbler: 0.6%
– American Redstart: 0.3%
– Grace’s Warbler: 0.3%
– Northern Parula: 0.2%
– Northern Waterthrush: 0.2%
– Black-and-white Warbler: 0.1%
– Hermit Warbler: 0.1%
– Hooded Warbler: 0.1%
– Ovenbird: 0.1%
– Blackpoll Warbler: Less than 0.1%
– Prothonotary Warbler: Less than 0.1%
Warblers in Nevada during Winter:
– Yellow-rumped Warbler: 28.2%
– Orange-crowned Warbler: 6.1%
– Common Yellowthroat: 0.2%
– Hooded Warbler: 0.1%
– Northern Parula: 0.1%
– Black-throated Gray Warbler: 0.1%
– Wilson’s Warbler: 0.1%
– Yellow Warbler: 0.1%
– Black-and-white Warbler: 0.1%
– Townsend’s Warbler: Less than 0.1%
– Nashville Warbler: Less than 0.1%
– American Redstart: Less than 0.1%
– MacGillivray’s Warbler: Less than 0.1%
– Ovenbird: Less than 0.1%
Methods to Attract Warblers to Your Backyard
Although warblers are not as frequent visitors to backyard feeders as other songbirds, there are strategies to entice these melodious creatures to your yard:
– If your yard permits, provide an assortment of trees.
– Embrace a slightly untidy yard by leaving brush piles, creating a welcoming habitat for insects.
– Refrain from using pesticides or herbicides, ensuring an abundance of insects for the birds without endangering their well-being.
– Supply a clean water source.
– Offer mealworms, preferably live, although dried ones can be substituted if necessary.
– Place bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, and suet, enticing warblers with a delectable feast.