Discover the complete guide designed to assist you in identifying the various species of warblers that frequently inhabit Nova Scotia. With the aid of photo identification and detailed descriptions, along with captivating audio recordings of their melodic tunes and intriguing facts, you’ll be equipped with everything you need and more.
Warblers, those small avian songsters, embark on remarkable migratory journeys spanning vast distances, from the depths of South America to their breeding grounds as far north as Canada. These vibrant creatures, adorned in splashes of yellow and green, swiftly traverse from their breeding habitats to wintering grounds, their captivating songs filling the air with a mesmerizing medley.
Referred to as wood-warblers, the North American warblers predominantly inhabit woodlands and forests, thriving amidst the lush foliage. However, be wary of the affliction known as warbler neck, an ailment characterized by painful neck stiffness and tingling sensations, resulting from gazing skyward through binoculars, intently searching for these elusive beauties nestled among the treetops.
While warblers primarily indulge in a diet of insects, they occasionally grace backyard feeders, partaking in seeds or mealworms. Unearth an array of other bird species that frequently grace the scenic landscapes of Nova Scotia, and feel free to procure a complimentary identification chart.
This comprehensive guide endeavors to aid in the identification of regularly occurring warbler species in Nova Scotia, drawing on authentic data collected from dedicated birdwatchers on eBird, supplemented by the rich resources of Avibase. By relying on this valuable information, you’ll acquire genuine insights into the optimal periods for observing these avian treasures in their natural habitats.
Delve deeper into the realm of warblers featured within this guide, delighting in their harmonious melodies while acquainting yourself with the diverse repertoire of their songs. Additionally, for a comprehensive introduction to 13 easily recognizable warbler songs, we encourage you to peruse our supplementary guide.
Let us now navigate the contents of this guide, presenting an organized display of warblers in Nova Scotia, categorized by their prevalence during different seasons:
Warblers in Nova Scotia during the summer: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Northern Parula, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Black-throated Green Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Ovenbird, Palm Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Canada Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Mourning Warbler
Warblers in Nova Scotia during migration: Cape May Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Tennessee Warbler
A Total of 20 Warbler Species Found in Nova Scotia:
1. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers can be observed in Nova Scotia during the breeding season, yet their population surges during migration, spanning from May to June and September to October. They make appearances on approximately 27% of summer checklists and up to 41% of checklists during migration.
Featuring gray plumage accentuated by flashes of vibrant yellow across their faces, sides, and rumps, these warblers exhibit white wings. Female individuals may possess a slight brownish tinge, while winter birds display paler brown tones with striking yellow rumps and sides, reverting to a combination of yellow and gray in the spring.
Within this species, two subspecies exist: the Myrtle Warbler, prevalent in the eastern United States and the boreal forests of Canada, which lacks a yellow throat, and the Audubon’s Warbler, found in the western regions, characterized by increased white markings on 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 primarily breed in Canada, as well as parts of the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains. During migration, they grace the Midwest before seeking refuge in the southern and southwestern states of the United States, along the Pacific Coast, and journeying into Mexico and Central America.
Coniferous forests serve as favored habitats for these warblers during the summer breeding season, while open areas dotted with fruiting shrubs become their winter sanctuaries. In summer, they predominantly feed on insects, switching to a diet of fruit, including bayberry and wax myrtle, during migration and winter.
Listen to the melodic song of the Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC602699. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
Females construct nests for Yellow-rumped Warblers, fashioning them with twigs, pine needles, and grass, while lining them with soft grass, moss, and hair. These nests accommodate up to six eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, followed by an additional two weeks until the young warblers leave the nest.
To entice Yellow-rumped Warblers to your backyard, offer them a delectable array of sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: Yellow-rumped Warblers have a propensity for forming flocks numbering in the thousands during winter, displaying aggression towards any species that encroaches upon their territory.
2. Common Yellowthroat
Nova Scotia serves as a summer haven for Common Yellowthroats, appearing on around 27% of summer checklists submitted by avid birdwatchers in the region. Their arrival commences in April, and their migration commences in October.
Sporting brownish plumage on their backs and vivid yellow plumage beneath, these small songbirds feature long tails. Males boast striking black masks gracing their faces. The intensity of the yellow hues may vary geographically, with certain populations displaying more olive tones on their undersides.
- 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 primarily breed across the majority of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. While some individuals remain year-round along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest, the rest embark on a southward journey during winter.
Common Yellowthroats often thrive in marshy or wetland areas, as well as in brushy fields adorned with dense vegetation.
Listen to the enchanting song of the Common Yellowthroat:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC629250. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Females diligently construct nests in marshy areas, relying on sturdy reeds for support. These nests consist of grass and sedges woven into a structure bolstered by a foundation of leaves and grass. Up to six eggs can be found within, requiring approximately twelve days to hatch, with an additional two weeks until the fledglings depart the nest.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, it is advisable to create an environment rich in dense vegetation and native plants capable of enticing insects.
Fun Fact: Male Common Yellowthroats utilize their black masks as an indicator of their gender during courtship, attacking objects mimicking other birds when they lack the distinctive facial marking.
3. Yellow Warbler
Yellow Warblers frequently grace Nova Scotia during the breeding season, appearing on approximately 27% of summer checklists. Their presence is most notable from April to September, with a few stragglers remaining until December.
These small, vibrant yellow birds exhibit a yellow-green hue on their backs, while males boast chestnut streaks on their breasts. In comparison, females and juveniles possess less vibrant colors and lack the distinguishing 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 embark on long migratory journeys to breed in Canada and the United States, excluding the southeastern states. Once breeding concludes, they undertake migration towards Central and South America, although sightings during migration are possible in southeastern states.
Streams, wetlands, and thickets adjacent to fields serve as favored foraging grounds for Yellow Warblers as they actively hunt insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
Listen to the delightful song of the Yellow Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC662546. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/662546.
Yellow Warbler nests are intricately woven into small trees or shrubs using bark, grass, and plant materials, secured by spider webs. These nests feature a cup-like structure, lined with softer materials like hair, feathers, and plant down. The female Yellow Warbler lays up to seven eggs, with an incubation period of approximately twelve days, followed by an additional ten days until the fledglings depart.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, consider providing suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants bearing berries. Additionally, cultivate native plants that invite insects without resorting to pesticides or excessive tidiness. Birdbaths with nearby secluded vegetation offer protection and hydration.
Fun Fact: Yellow Warblers face the challenge of cowbirds, which often lay their eggs in their nests. In response, Yellow Warblers build new nests atop the old ones, restarting the process up to six times!
4. American Robin
The American Robin is a familiar and beloved bird species found throughout Nova Scotia. These medium-sized thrushes are known for their distinctive orange-red breasts, grayish-brown backs, and white bellies. Male and female American Robins look similar, with the male often having a darker head.
- Turdus migratorius
- Length: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm)
- Weight: 2.7-3.0 ounces (77-85 g)
- Wingspan: 12-16 inches (31-41 cm)
American Robins are year-round residents in Nova Scotia, although some individuals may migrate short distances south during the winter. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, suburban areas, parks, and gardens.
Listen to the melodious song of the American Robin:
Credit: David Moyer, XC563645. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/563645.
These birds primarily feed on earthworms, insects, and fruits. They are known for their distinctive behavior of tilting their heads to listen for prey in the ground. American Robins often nest in trees, shrubs, or even on man-made structures such as buildings and lampposts. The female constructs the nest using grass, twigs, and mud, and typically lays three to five blue eggs. Incubation takes about two weeks, and the fledglings leave the nest after about two weeks as well.
To attract American Robins to your backyard, provide a variety of food sources such as earthworms, insects, berries, and fruits like chopped apples or berries. Bird baths and shallow water sources are also appreciated by these birds.
Fun Fact: American Robins are known for their behavior of hopping and running on lawns to search for food. This distinctive behavior has earned them the nickname “Lawn Robins.”
5. Dark-eyed Junco
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow species that can be found in Nova Scotia during the winter months. They are known for their striking plumage variations, with several distinct subspecies.
- Junco hyemalis
- Length: 5.1-6.3 inches (13-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.7-1.1 ounces (20-30 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 inches (19-25 cm)
Dark-eyed Juncos have a dark gray or brownish-gray upper body, white underparts, and white outer tail feathers that flash during flight. The extent of white on their belly and sides can vary depending on the subspecies. They are ground-dwelling birds and can often be seen foraging on the forest floor or in open areas.
Listen to the distinctive call of the Dark-eyed Junco:
Credit: Gregory F. Budney, XC562162. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/562162.
During the winter, Dark-eyed Juncos migrate from their breeding grounds in northern Canada and the northern United States to spend the colder months in more southern regions, including Nova Scotia. They primarily feed on seeds and grains but will also eat small insects.
Dark-eyed Juncos build cup-shaped nests on or near the ground, usually hidden in dense vegetation. The female constructs the nest using grass, twigs, and moss and lines it with fine materials such as feathers or hair. They typically lay three to five eggs, and incubation lasts about two weeks.
To attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your backyard during the winter, provide a variety of seeds and grains, such as millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. They also appreciate dense shrubs or
brush piles for cover.
Fun Fact: Dark-eyed Juncos are known for their “snowbird” behavior, as they arrive in northern regions during the winter when snow is on the ground. Their presence is often associated with the arrival of winter weather.
10. Chestnut-sided Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warblers are migratory birds that breed in the boreal forests of Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. They pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. These warblers have a striking plumage with bright yellow underparts, a chestnut crown, and white wing bars.
- Setophaga pensylvanica
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Chestnut-sided Warblers can be found in deciduous and mixed forests, often near wetlands. They migrate to Central and South America for the winter.
Chestnut-sided Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. They forage in the understory and mid-canopy of trees.
Listen to the distinctive song of the Chestnut-sided Warbler:
Credit: Mike Nelson, XC571582. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/571582.
Nests of Chestnut-sided Warblers are cup-shaped and built on or near the ground in dense vegetation. The female constructs the nest using grass, leaves, and bark strips, and lines it with fine plant materials. They typically lay three to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
11. Blackpoll Warbler
Blackpoll Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a somewhat plain appearance, with grayish-brown plumage and black streaks on their sides. During the breeding season, males develop a distinct black cap.
- Setophaga striata
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
Blackpoll Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. They undertake one of the longest migratory journeys of any North American songbird, flying nonstop over the Atlantic Ocean to reach their wintering grounds in South America.
Blackpoll Warblers primarily feed on insects, including flies, beetles, and caterpillars. They forage in the upper canopy of trees.
Listen to the high-pitched song of the Blackpoll Warbler:
Credit: Jarek Matusiak, XC591215. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/591215.
Nests of Blackpoll Warblers are cup-shaped and built on or near the ground in dense vegetation. The female constructs the nest using grass, leaves, and moss, and lines it with fine plant materials. They typically lay four to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
12. Palm Warbler
Palm Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a distinct appearance with a rusty brown cap, yellow underparts, and a constantly wagging tail.
- Setophaga palmarum
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Palm Warblers can be found in the boreal forests of Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. They winter in the southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and parts of Central America.
Palm Warblers primarily feed on insects, including beetles, flies, and spiders. They forage on the ground and in low vegetation.
Listen to the energetic song of the Palm Warbler:
Credit: Jarek Matusiak, XC584289. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/584289.
Nests of Palm Warblers are cup-shaped and built on or near the ground, often hidden in dense vegetation. The female constructs the nest using grass, leaves, and moss, and lines it with fine plant materials. They typically lay four to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
13. Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. Males have a striking appearance with deep blue upperparts, a black throat, and white underparts. Females have more subdued plumage with olive-brown upperparts and pale yellow underparts.
- Setophaga caerulescens
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Black-throated Blue Warblers can be found in the deciduous and mixed forests of eastern North America, including parts of Canada and the eastern United States. They winter in the Caribbean and parts of Central America.
Black-throated Blue Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. They forage in the understory and mid-canopy of trees.
Listen to the distinctive song of the Black-throated Blue Warbler:
Credit: Peter Boesman, XC380423. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/380423.
Nests of Black-throated Blue Warblers are cup-shaped and built in shrubs or low trees, usually close to the ground. The female constructs the nest using grass, twigs, and bark strips, and lines it with fine plant materials. They typically lay three to four eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
14. Black-throated Green Warbler
Black-throated Green Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a striking appearance with olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and a black throat and face.
- Setophaga virens
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Black-throated Green Warblers can be found in the coniferous and mixed forests of eastern North America, including parts of Canada and the northeastern United States. They winter in the Caribbean and parts of Central America.
Black-throated Green Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. They forage in the mid-canopy and upper canopy of trees.
Listen to the melodious song of the Black-throated Green Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC608798. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/608798.
Nests of Black-throated Green Warblers are cup-shaped and built in coniferous or deciduous trees. The female constructs the nest using twigs, grass, and plant fibers, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay three to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
15. Pine Warbler
Pine Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a relatively plain appearance with olive-brown upperparts and pale yellow underparts.
- Setophaga pinus
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Pine Warblers can be found in the pine forests and mixed woodlands of eastern North America, including parts of Canada and the eastern United States. They winter in the southeastern United States and the Caribbean.
Pine Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and ants. They forage in the foliage and branches of trees.
Listen to the song of the Pine Warbler:
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC348048. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/348048.
Nests of Pine Warblers are cup-shaped and built in the upper branches of pine trees or other conifers. The female constructs the nest using pine needles, twigs, and grass, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay three to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
16. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warblers, also known as Myrtle Warblers, are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a distinctive appearance with a yellow rump patch, yellow throat, and streaked black-and-white markings on their back.
- Setophaga coronata
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
During the breeding season, Yellow-rumped Warblers can be found in the boreal forests of Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. They winter in a wide range of habitats, including the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Yellow-rumped Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. They forage in the foliage and branches of trees, but also catch insects in mid-air.
Listen to the song of the Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Credit: Willem-Pier Vellinga, XC576641. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/576641.
Nests of Yellow-rumped Warblers are cup-shaped and built in trees, usually several feet above the ground. The female constructs the nest using twigs, grass, and bark, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay four to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
17. Ovenbird
Ovenbirds are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. They have a distinct appearance with olive-brown upperparts, streaked underparts, and a bold black stripe on their head.
- Seiurus aurocapilla
- Length: 5.1-6.3 inches (13-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.5-0.6 ounces (15-17 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
During the breeding season, Ovenbirds can be found in the deciduous and mixed forests of eastern North America, including parts of Canada and the eastern United States. They winter in southern Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of Central America.
Ovenbirds primarily feed on insects, including beetles, ants, and spiders. They forage on the ground, scratching through leaf litter in search of prey.
Listen to the loud song of the Ovenbird:
Credit: Andrew Spencer, XC366515. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/366515.
Nests of Ovenbirds are domed and shaped like an old-fashioned oven, hence their name. The nest is built on the ground, usually hidden under vegetation or leaf litter. The female constructs the nest using twigs, leaves, and grass, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay four to six eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
18. Common Yellowthroat
Common Yellowthroats are migratory birds that breed in Nova Scotia and other parts of North America. They have a distinct appearance with olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and a black mask across their face.
- Geothlypis trichas
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
During the breeding season, Common Yellowthroats can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, wetlands, and brushy areas. They winter in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Common Yellowthroats primarily feed on insects, including beetles, flies, and caterpillars. They forage in dense vegetation, often hopping along the ground or low branches.
Listen to the song of the Common Yellowthroat:
Credit: Willem-Pier Vellinga, XC576638. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/576638.
Nests of Common Yellowthroats are cup-shaped and built in dense vegetation, close to the ground. The female constructs the nest using grass, leaves, and plant fibers, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay four to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
19. American Redstart
American Redstarts are migratory birds that breed in Nova Scotia and other parts of North America. Males have a striking appearance with black upperparts, bright orange patches on their wings and tail, and white underparts. Females have more subdued plumage with olive-brown upperparts and yellow underparts.
- Setophaga ruticilla
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
During the breeding season, American Redstarts can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, wetlands, and scrubby areas. They winter in the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America.
American Redstarts primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, flies, and beetles. They forage by actively flitting and fluttering their wings, gleaning insects from foliage.
Listen to the song of the American Redstart:
Credit: Jonathon Jongsma, XC560301. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/560301.
Nests of American Redstarts are cup-shaped and built in shrubs or trees, usually a few feet above the ground. The female constructs the nest using grass, plant fibers, and hair, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay three to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
20. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s Warblers are migratory birds that pass through Nova Scotia during their spring and fall migration. Males have a distinct appearance with bright yellow plumage, a black cap, and a small black patch on their throat. Females have more subdued plumage with olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts.
- Cardellina pusilla
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
During the breeding season, Wilson’s Warblers can be found in the boreal forests of Canada and parts of the western United States. They winter in Mexico and Central America.
Wilson’s Warblers primarily feed on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. They forage in shrubs and low vegetation, often flicking their wings while foraging.
Listen to the song of the Wilson’s Warbler:
Credit: Paul Marvin, XC515101. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/515101.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers are cup-shaped and built in shrubs or low trees, usually close to the ground. The female constructs the nest using grass, moss, and plant fibers, and lines it with fine materials. They typically lay three to five eggs, which hatch after about two weeks.
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