Discover the ultimate handbook designed to assist you in recognizing every single warbler species that frequently appears in West Virginia. Packed with captivating photo identifications, vivid descriptions, enchanting audio recordings of their melodious tunes, and intriguing fun facts, this guide is your key to unlocking a world of avian wonderment.
Warblers, those dainty migratory songsters, embark on epic journeys spanning vast distances, all the way from South America to their breeding grounds in the far reaches of Canada. These lively and resplendent birds dart through the skies with a burst of vibrant yellows and greens, serenading us with an astounding medley of songs.
Renowned as wood-warblers in North America due to their preference for woodlands and forests, these delightful creatures may even subject you to a peculiar ailment known as “warbler neck” – a painful stiffness and tingling sensation in your neck resulting from gazing upwards into the treetops, binoculars in hand, on a quest to spot these elusive beauties.
While warblers predominantly indulge in a diet of insects, they occasionally grace backyard feeders, tantalized by seeds and mealworms. Be sure to explore the assortment of other bird species that regularly grace the lands of West Virginia and print a complimentary identification chart.
This guide serves as your trusty companion in identifying the various warbler species that make West Virginia their temporary home, providing verified information derived from avid birdwatchers’ data on eBird and reliable sources like avibase. It offers valuable insights into the specific times of the year when these avian treasures can be observed.
Each warbler showcased within this guide presents an opportunity to savor their unique melodies and provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of warbler songs. However, should you yearn for a deeper understanding of these enchanting melodies, be sure to consult our dedicated guide, which features an assortment of 13 readily recognizable warbler songs.
1. Common Yellowthroat
Behold the vibrant male Common Yellowthroat, adorned with its distinctive black facial mask and a cheerful yellow underbelly. The female showcases a more subtle hue, retaining the charm of its yellow allure. These delightful creatures make frequent appearances, featured in 22% of the summer checklists provided by diligent birdwatchers across the state.
Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (9-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 inches (15-19 cm)
Common Yellowthroats embark on a summer breeding journey across vast territories encompassing most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. While some take up residence along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest throughout the year, others migrate southward for the winter. Discover these marvelous creatures thriving in marshy realms, wetlands, and brushy fields, concealed amidst thick and entangled vegetation.
Listen to the captivating song of the Common Yellowthroat, a melody crafted by the talented Paul Marvin (XC629250), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/629250.
Observe their diligent nest-building activities, as females construct cozy nests near the ground within marshy domains, fortified by reeds. These nests, carefully woven from grass, sedges, leaves, and twigs, become home to a clutch of up to six eggs, requiring twelve days of incubation before the young hatch and venture out into the world.
Invite these delightful Common Yellowthroats to grace your spacious backyard by creating dense vegetation, abundant with native plants that entice insects and beckon these vibrant birds.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: The male Common Yellowthroat’s black mask acts as a signal to courting males, prompting them to defend their territory vigorously against perceived intruders. However, intriguingly, they refrain from attacking when the imposter lacks the distinctive mask.
2. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Witness the Yellow-rumped Warblers during their remarkable fall migration in October, gracing West Virginia’s lands with their presence. Remarkably, a select few also choose to winter in the eastern region of the state, captivating observers with their charismatic allure.
Donning hues of gray, these warblers surprise onlookers with sudden flashes of vibrant yellow on their faces, sides, and rumps, complemented by white-adorned wings. The females, displaying a slightly browner appearance, transition into a paler shade of brown during the winter months, with their rumps and sides transitioning back to their striking yellow and gray tones come spring.
- Size: 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)
The Yellow-rumped Warblers undertake a remarkable breeding journey across the Canadian and Rocky Mountains, as well as the Appalachian Mountains. Once the migration commences, they grace the Midwest before settling in the southern and southwestern United States, along the Pacific Coast, and even venturing into Mexico and Central America.
Discover these fascinating creatures amidst coniferous forests during their breeding season, transitioning to open areas with fruiting shrubs as winter approaches. While they indulge in a predominantly insect-based diet during the summer, their winter menu consists mainly of fruits like bayberry and wax myrtle.
Listen to the captivating song of the Yellow-rumped Warbler, rendered by Christopher McPherson (XC602699), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/602699.
Observe their nests, carefully crafted by females in conifer trees, utilizing twigs, pine needles, grass, and soft grass as building materials. These cozy abodes, lined with moss, hair, and feathers, safeguard a clutch of up to six eggs, which hatch after a fortnight, followed by an additional two weeks before the fledglings take flight.
Attract these enchanting Yellow-rumped Warblers to your backyard with delectable offerings such as sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Here’s a fascinating fact: During winter, Yellow-rumped Warblers assemble in flocks numbering in the thousands, displaying an assertive demeanor towards any intruders encroaching upon their territory.
3. Black-throated Green Warbler
During the summer months, from mid-March to October, witness the Black-throated Green Warblers gracing West Virginia’s landscapes. These enchanting creatures adorn themselves in resplendent hues of yellow, with a distinctive olive-yellow back and black streaking on their wings and sides. Males flaunt large black patches on their throats, while females and juveniles boast smaller versions of this feature.
- Size: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (7-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
The Black-throated Green Warblers embark on an impressive migration journey across the eastern United States, spanning from northeastern states to their breeding grounds in the northeastern United States and Canada. Their winter destinations encompass Mexico, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
These delightful warblers favor the upper reaches of forests as their preferred habitat, where they diligently forage for insects. Their distinctive black throats aid in their easy identification amidst the flurry of other small yellow birds.
Listen to the melodious song of the Black-throated Green Warbler, graciously performed by Paul Driver (XC187636), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/187636.
Discover their skillful nest-building abilities, as they select small trees close to the trunk as ideal locations. These nests are masterpieces woven from twigs, bark, spiders’ webs, and lined with animal hair, moss, and feathers. Each nest harbors a clutch of around four eggs, which hatch after twelve days, followed by ten days until the fledglings venture out into the world.
Attract these charming Black-throated Green Warblers to your backyard by fostering mature trees and creating a welcoming sanctuary.
Here’s an intriguing fact: Male Black-throated Green Warblers exhibit an astonishing ability to sing over 400 times in a single hour, displaying their dominance through an acrobatic “gloating” flight after successfully chasing away rival males.
4. American Redstart
From April to October, be enchanted by the American Redstarts gracing the landscapes of West Virginia. These captivating birds are featured in 16% of summer checklists submitted by avid bird watchers in the state.
Mostly black with striking bright orange patches and a white belly, American Redstarts make a distinctive impression. Females, on the other hand, exhibit an olive-gray hue instead of black and possess yellow patches.
- Size: 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 primarily breed in the eastern United States and Canada, extending into northwestern regions of the United States. During migration, they can also be observed in central and western states.
Discover these captivating birds amidst deciduous woodlands, where they actively hunt for insects. Additionally, they can be found in backyards and thickets, relishing in the consumption of berries like serviceberry and magnolia.
Listen to the enchanting song of the American Redstart, featuring a drop in pitch towards the end, sung by Nick Kiehl (XC522368), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/522368.
Observe their nests, situated near tree trunks or within large shrubs, meticulously constructed using bark, grass, and various plant materials. These nests cradle a clutch of up to five eggs, requiring just under two weeks of incubation before the young birds are ready to explore the world.
Attract these lively American Redstarts to your backyard with a diverse array of native plants that provide shelter, food, and nesting opportunities.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: American Redstarts employ a unique foraging strategy called “flush-and-pursuit,” where they flutter their wings to startle insects, effectively revealing their location before darting in for the capture.
5. Ovenbird
From April to October, bear witness to the Ovenbirds gracing West Virginia’s woodlands with their presence. Named for their distinctive nest, reminiscent of an old-fashioned outdoor oven, these charming birds exhibit an overall olive-brown coloration with bold black streaks on their upper body and a white eye-ring.
- Size: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.5-0.6 ounces (14-17 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
Ovenbirds breed throughout the eastern United States and Canada, favoring dense deciduous forests as their primary habitat. During migration, they traverse the Gulf Coast and parts of Central America.
Listen to the melodious song of the Ovenbird, resembling the phrase “Teacher! Teacher! Teacher!” performed by Lance A. M. Benner (XC268892), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/268892.
These skilled foragers primarily feed on insects and other arthropods found within the leaf litter of forests. They utilize their strong legs to scrape and uncover potential prey while exploring the forest floor.
Discover their remarkable nests, situated on the ground amidst leaf litter, formed by the female using woven leaves, grass, and bark. The oven-like appearance and placement provide protection from predators while ensuring a cozy environment for a clutch of around four eggs. After a short incubation period, the hatchlings spend an additional eight to ten days in the nest before taking their first flights.
Invite these delightful Ovenbirds to your backyard by maintaining a naturalistic landscape with leaf litter and dense undergrowth.
Here’s a fascinating fact: Ovenbirds possess a unique adaptation known as a “waggle dance,” performed when a predator approaches their nest. This behavior aims to distract and draw attention away from the nest, ensuring the safety of their offspring.
Please note that this is just a small selection of the warbler species that can be observed in West Virginia. The complete guide will provide detailed information on additional warbler species, including their appearances, songs, habitats, and more.
6. Yellow Warbler
From May to September, the vibrant Yellow Warblers grace the landscapes of West Virginia with their bright yellow plumage and melodic songs. These small songbirds have a lovely yellow coloration, with males sporting reddish streaks on their chests. Females, on the other hand, have a slightly duller yellow appearance.
- Size: 4.7 inches (12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
Yellow Warblers breed throughout the United States and Canada, including West Virginia. They favor various habitats such as wetlands, forests, and even suburban areas with suitable vegetation.
Listen to the delightful song of the Yellow Warbler, a sweet series of whistled notes, sung by Gregory F. Budney (XC187641), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/187641.
These lively warblers are insectivores, feeding on a diverse diet that includes insects, spiders, and caterpillars. They often forage in shrubs, trees, and along water bodies, hopping from branch to branch in search of prey.
Yellow Warblers build intricate cup-shaped nests, expertly woven from grass, plant fibers, and spider silk. The nests are usually suspended between forked branches or attached to vegetation near water sources. Female Yellow Warblers lay around four to five eggs, which hatch after about 10-12 days. The young birds leave the nest after another 10-12 days and continue to be cared for by their parents.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, provide shrubs and trees with dense foliage that can serve as nesting sites and offer a variety of insects by avoiding pesticide use.
7. Common Yellowthroat
From April to October, keep an eye out for the Common Yellowthroat in West Virginia’s marshes, wetlands, and other dense vegetated areas. These small warblers feature yellow underparts, olive-green upperparts, and distinct black masks on their faces. Males have more extensive black masks, while females have lighter ones.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
Common Yellowthroats breed across most of North America, including West Virginia. They are especially abundant in wetland habitats, where they can be found among cattails, reeds, and other tall vegetation.
Listen to the song of the Common Yellowthroat, a series of short, rolling notes that sounds like “witchity-witchity-witchity,” performed by Gerrit Vyn (XC305111), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/305111.
These insectivorous birds have a diverse diet, feeding on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. They often forage by gleaning insects from vegetation or by flying out to catch prey in mid-air.
Common Yellowthroats build their nests close to the ground, concealed among vegetation. The nests are woven structures made of grasses, plant fibers, and other materials. The female lays a clutch of around three to five eggs, which hatch after about 10-12 days. The young birds fledge and become independent after another 8-10 days.
To attract Common Yellowthroats, create wetland-like habitats in your backyard by incorporating water features, tall grasses, and dense shrubs.
8. Black-throated Green Warbler
During the summer months from May to September, the Black-throated Green Warbler graces the forests of West Virginia with its striking appearance and lively presence. These warblers are characterized by their yellow faces and olive-yellow backs, with the males boasting large black patches on their throats.
- Size: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (7-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
Black-throated Green Warblers are primarily found in northeastern regions of the United States and Canada. They breed in these areas and undertake impressive migrations, spending the winter in Mexico, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
Listen to the melodious song of the Black-throated Green Warbler, a series of high-pitched, buzzy notes, performed by Daniel Parker (XC512682), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/512682.
These warblers prefer the high canopies of coniferous and mixed forests, where they actively forage for insects among the foliage. Their black throats help distinguish them from other yellow-colored birds that inhabit the same habitat.
Black-throated Green Warblers construct cup-shaped nests in small trees, close to the trunk. The nests are skillfully crafted using twigs, bark, and grass, held together with spider webs. Inside, they line the nest with soft materials like animal hair, moss, and feathers. The female lays a clutch of approximately four eggs, which hatch after about twelve days. The young birds fledge and leave the nest around ten days later.
To attract Black-throated Green Warblers, maintain a healthy forest ecosystem with a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees. Providing a variety of insects and spiders will also help attract these warblers to your backyard.
9. American Redstart
From April to October, the American Redstart brings its vibrant colors and energetic nature to the forests and woodlands of West Virginia. These warblers showcase a black-and-orange plumage, with the males featuring black bodies and vivid orange patches on their wings, tails, and sides.
- Size: 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 across the eastern United States and Canada, venturing as far north as Newfoundland and as far south as Florida. They migrate to Central and South America for the winter months.
Listen to the distinctive song of the American Redstart, a series of musical notes interspersed with buzzy sounds, performed by Andrew Spencer (XC603020), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/603020.
These warblers prefer to inhabit mixed forests and woodlands, where they actively hunt for insects by performing acrobatic aerial maneuvers. They use their bright tail patterns to flash and attract insects, effectively creating a “startle and snatch” feeding strategy.
American Redstarts build cup-shaped nests, often positioned near the end of tree branches. They construct the nests using materials like bark, grass, and plant fibers, skillfully weaving them together. The female lays a clutch of three to five eggs, which incubate for about 10-14 days. The young birds fledge and become independent after approximately 8-12 days.
To attract American Redstarts, create a diverse habitat with a mixture of tall trees and shrubs. Providing a water source and planting native trees and shrubs that attract insects will further entice these warblers to visit your backyard.
10. Ovenbird
The melodious song of the Ovenbird resonates through the forests of West Virginia during the breeding season, from April to October. These warblers may not boast vibrant colors like their counterparts, but their enchanting presence and distinctive appearance make them a captivating sight.
- Size: 5.9-6.3 inches (15-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-1.0 ounce (16-28 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-10.2 inches (19-26 cm)
Ovenbirds breed in the northeastern United States and Canada, as well as in parts of the Midwest. They embark on long migrations and spend the winter in Florida, Mexico, Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean.
Listen to the beautiful song of the Ovenbird, a series of loud, ringing “teacher, teacher, teacher” notes that gradually increase in volume and speed, performed by Brad Davis (XC609920), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/609920.
These ground-dwelling warblers can be found rummaging through leaf litter in forests, using their distinctive orange crown stripes to identify them. They have a preference for areas with dense, tangled vegetation, where they hunt for insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.
Ovenbirds create unique nest structures that resemble an old-fashioned oven, hence their name. They build their nests on the ground, using leaves, grass, bark, and other plant materials. The female carefully crafts the nest, forming a dome-shaped structure with a side entrance. After around 12 days of incubation, the eggs hatch, and it takes approximately 10 days for the young birds to leave the nest.
To attract Ovenbirds to your backyard, provide natural leaf litter and preserve the understory vegetation in your woodland or forested area. These habitats offer the necessary shelter and food sources to support these charming warblers.
11. Yellow Warbler
As spring arrives in West Virginia, the sweet, melodic song of the Yellow Warbler fills the air, signaling the return of these small, bright-yellow migratory birds. From April to September, they grace the state with their vibrant plumage and joyful presence.
- Size: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounce (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 inches (16-20 cm)
Yellow Warblers undertake impressive migrations, breeding across Canada and the United States (excluding the southeastern states), before embarking on a journey to Central and South America for the winter. During their migration, they can be spotted in southeastern US states.
Listen to the cheerful song of the Yellow Warbler, a series of high-pitched, rapid notes that sound like “sweet-sweet-sweet, I’m so sweet,” performed by Thomas Magarian (XC647089), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/647089.
These warblers are commonly found near streams, wetlands, and the edges of fields, where they search for insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and wasps. Their preference for areas with dense shrubs and vegetation makes them a delight to observe.
Yellow Warblers build cup-shaped nests, often located in small trees or shrubs. They skillfully construct their nests using bark, grass, and plant material, weaving them together and securing them with spider silk. The nests are then lined with softer materials such as hair, feathers, and plant down. After approximately 12 days of incubation, the eggs hatch, and it takes about 10 days for the young birds to fledge.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer a variety of food sources such as suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants with berries. Native plants that attract insects without the use of pesticides are particularly appealing to these colorful visitors. Additionally, providing birdbaths with fountains near secluded plantings can create a haven for them to enjoy and find protection.
12. Black-and-white Warbler
The Black-and-white Warbler adds a touch of monochromatic elegance to West Virginia’s woodlands during its breeding season. These distinctive birds, with their striped plumage and unique foraging behavior, are a treat for birdwatchers to behold.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounce (8-15 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)
Black-and-white Warblers breed in the eastern United States and Canada. As they embark on migration, they can be observed in central US states. Their winter destinations include Florida, along the Gulf Coast, Mexico, Baja California, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
Listen to the rhythmic song of the Black-and-white Warbler, a high-pitched series of “wee-see-wee-see” notes, performed by Rob Porter (XC414866), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/414866.
These agile warblers are known for their unique foraging technique. Unlike most warblers that primarily search for insects in trees and shrubs, Black-and-white Warblers often move along the trunks and branches of trees, resembling tiny acrobats. They use their sharp beaks to probe bark crevices, gleaning insects, spiders, and other arthropods.
Nests of Black-and-white Warblers are usually concealed close to or on the ground, often hidden under logs or shrubs. Constructed with bark, grass, and pine needles intricately woven together, the nests provide a secure environment for their eggs. After an incubation period of approximately 11 days, the eggs hatch, and it takes around 10 days for the fledglings to leave the nest.
To attract Black-and-white Warblers to your backyard, maintain a diverse habitat with a mixture of trees and shrubs. These warblers appreciate the presence of insects and spiders, so refrain from using pesticides and let their natural food sources thrive. The provision of brush piles and fallen logs can also create additional foraging opportunities and nesting sites.
13. American Redstart
The American Redstart brings a burst of color and energy to West Virginia’s forests during the breeding season. These small warblers, with their striking black and orange plumage, are known for their active foraging behavior and distinctive tail flicking.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounce (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
American Redstarts breed across eastern North America, including West Virginia, and venture as far north as Canada. During migration, they can be spotted in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, thickets, and even urban parks.
Listen to the musical song of the American Redstart, a series of high-pitched, warbling notes mixed with buzzy sounds, performed by Andrew Spencer (XC555176), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/555176.
These active warblers forage by fluttering their wings and flicking their tails, which helps flush out insects from foliage. They feed on a variety of prey, including caterpillars, beetles, flies, and spiders.
American Redstarts build cup-shaped nests in the understory of forests or shrubby habitats. The nests are made of bark strips, grasses, and plant fibers, expertly woven together. The female alone incubates the eggs for about 10-13 days, and once hatched, the young birds leave the nest after approximately 8-11 days.
To attract American Redstarts to your backyard, provide a mix of tall trees and shrubs to create a diverse habitat. Offering a water source such as a birdbath and planting native trees and shrubs that attract insects can help entice these vibrant warblers to visit.
14. Hooded Warbler
The Hooded Warbler, with its distinctive black hood and bright yellow body, adds a splash of color to West Virginia’s forests and woodlands. These energetic and elusive songbirds are known for their enchanting songs and their preference for dense undergrowth.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounce (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
Hooded Warblers breed across the eastern United States, including parts of West Virginia, and winter in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. During migration, they can be observed in a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests.
Listen to the melodic song of the Hooded Warbler, a series of rich, whistling notes that resemble the phrase “weeta-weeta-wee-tee-oh,” performed by Ian Cruickshank (XC167282), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/167282.
These warblers are often found in the understory of forests, where they actively search for insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. They have a particular affinity for areas with dense shrubs, leaf litter, and moist environments.
Hooded Warblers construct cup-shaped nests close to or on the ground, often hidden among vegetation. The nests are made of leaves, bark strips, and plant fibers, and lined with fine grasses and hair. After an incubation period of around 12 days, the eggs hatch, and the fledglings leave the nest after approximately 8-10 days.
To attract Hooded Warblers to your backyard, create a diverse and dense understory habitat by planting native shrubs and providing ample cover. Water features such as small ponds or birdbaths can also be enticing to these warblers, as they enjoy bathing and drinking.
15. Yellow-breasted Chat
The Yellow-breasted Chat is a large and vibrant songbird that adds excitement to West Virginia’s shrubby habitats. Known for its distinctive vocalizations and animated behavior, this species is often considered an “oddity” among warblers due to its unique characteristics.
- Size: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
- Weight: 0.9-1.3 ounces (26-38 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 inches (20-23 cm)
Yellow-breasted Chats breed in shrubby habitats throughout the eastern United States, including West Virginia. During migration, they can be found in a range of habitats, including forest edges, wetlands, and thickets.
Listen to the varied vocalizations of the Yellow-breasted Chat, which include a mix of whistles, chattering, and even imitations of other birds, performed by Andrew Spencer (XC339894), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/339894.
These chat-like warblers are known for their animated behavior and can be quite elusive. They feed on a variety of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and spiders, often captured during aerial acrobatics.
Yellow-breasted Chats construct open cup-shaped nests, often placed in dense shrubs or low vegetation. The nests are made of grasses, leaves, and bark strips, and are lined with finer materials such as rootlets and hair. After an incubation period of around 12 days, the eggs hatch, and the fledglings leave the nest after approximately 8-10 days.
To attract Yellow-breasted Chats to your backyard, provide a mix of shrubby and dense vegetation, as well as a water source such as a birdbath. Native plants that attract insects can serve as a valuable food source. Patience and attentive listening will increase your chances of spotting these charismatic warblers in the wild.
16. Eastern Whip-poor-will
The Eastern Whip-poor-will is a nocturnal bird that fills West Virginia’s summer nights with its distinctive call. This medium-sized nightjar is known for its camouflage plumage and its haunting “whip-poor-will” song.
- Size: 8.7-10.2 inches (22-26 cm)
- Weight: 1.6-2.3 ounces (45-65 g)
- Wingspan: 18.9-20.9 inches (48-53 cm)
Eastern Whip-poor-wills breed across the eastern United States, including West Virginia, and winter in the southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They inhabit a variety of forested habitats, including deciduous woodlands, pine forests, and open areas with scattered trees.
Listen to the distinctive song of the Eastern Whip-poor-will, a series of repetitious “whip-poor-will” notes, performed by Andrew Spencer (XC135272), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/135272.
As nocturnal birds, Eastern Whip-poor-wills are active at dusk and dawn, using their wide mouths to capture flying insects, including moths, beetles, and mosquitoes. During the day, they rely on their excellent camouflage to blend with their surroundings, roosting on the ground or low branches.
Eastern Whip-poor-wills do not build traditional nests. Instead, they lay their eggs directly on the ground, often in leaf litter or on bare soil. Their mottled plumage provides excellent camouflage for their eggs and young chicks.
To attract Eastern Whip-poor-wills to your property, maintain natural areas with dense vegetation and a mix of tree species. Avoid using pesticides, as these can reduce the availability of insects, which are an essential food source for these birds.
17. Canada Warbler
The Canada Warbler is a small and colorful migratory songbird that graces West Virginia during its breeding season. With its striking black necklace and vibrant yellow underparts, this warbler is a delightful sight to behold.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-14 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm)
Canada Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and the northeastern United States before embarking on their impressive migration journey. During migration, they can be found in a variety of habitats, including mixed forests, moist woodlands, and shrubby areas.
Listen to the melodic song of the Canada Warbler, a series of high-pitched notes with a descending quality, performed by Dan Mennill (XC110610), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/110610.
These warblers have a penchant for insects, their primary food source, which they glean from foliage and catch on the wing. They feed on various insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, playing an essential role in pest control.
Canada Warblers build cup-shaped nests in dense understory vegetation, usually close to the ground. These nests are constructed from grasses, leaves, and other plant materials, intricately woven together and lined with fine materials such as moss and feathers. After an incubation period of about 12 days, the eggs hatch, and the young birds fledge in approximately 9-11 days.
To attract Canada Warblers to your surroundings, maintain a diverse and healthy forest habitat with a well-developed understory. Providing native shrubs and trees that offer shelter, insects, and berries can enhance their presence in your area.
18. Northern Waterthrush
The Northern Waterthrush is a charming and elusive warbler species that frequents West Virginia’s wetlands and riparian habitats. With its streaked plumage and distinctive bobbing motion, this bird adds intrigue to any birdwatching excursion.
- Size: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 ounces (12-17 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 inches (20-23 cm)
Northern Waterthrushes breed in the northern United States and Canada, including parts of West Virginia, and spend their winters in Central and South America. They inhabit various wetland habitats, such as swamps, marshes, and streamsides, where they forage for food.
Listen to the energetic and loud song of the Northern Waterthrush, a series of musical notes often described as “sweet-sweet-sweet,” performed by Ian Cruickshank (XC136293), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/136293.
These warblers have a diverse diet that includes insects, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. They actively search for prey by probing in muddy areas, flipping over leaves, and exploring the water’s edge.
Northern Waterthrushes construct cup-shaped nests on or near the ground, hidden among vegetation or under fallen logs. These nests are made of grasses, leaves, and moss, intricately woven together and lined with fine materials. After an incubation period of around 12 days, the eggs hatch, and the young birds leave the nest after approximately 9-11 days.
To attract Northern Waterthrushes to your wetland or backyard, create or preserve wetland habitats with dense vegetation, such as shrubs and trees, and maintain a clean water source. The presence of insects, snails, and other small aquatic creatures will entice
these warblers to visit.
19. Swainson’s Warbler
The Swainson’s Warbler is a secretive and elusive bird species that can be found in the dense forests and swampy areas of West Virginia. Although it may be challenging to spot, its rich musical song resonates through the woodland, adding a touch of mystery to the wilderness.
- Size: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-0.7 ounces (17-20 g)
- Wingspan: 8.7 inches (22 cm)
Swainson’s Warblers breed in the southeastern United States, including parts of West Virginia, and spend their winters in Central and South America. They have a preference for densely vegetated habitats, such as bottomland forests, swamps, and canebrakes.
Listen to the distinctive song of the Swainson’s Warbler, a series of clear, ringing notes that ascend and then descend, performed by Matthew D. Medler (XC302911), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/302911.
These warblers are skilled foragers, searching for insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates among the leaf litter and dense vegetation. They use their pointed bills to probe and pick their prey from the ground and low vegetation.
Swainson’s Warblers build their nests on or near the ground, concealed in dense vegetation, such as shrubs or ferns. These nests are constructed from leaves, bark, and grasses, woven together to form a sturdy cup. After an incubation period of approximately 12-14 days, the eggs hatch, and the young birds fledge in about 9-10 days.
To increase the chances of encountering Swainson’s Warblers, explore mature and undisturbed forests with dense undergrowth, particularly in swampy areas. Patience and careful listening are often rewarded with the delightful sound of their melodious song.
20. Prothonotary Warbler
The Prothonotary Warbler, with its vibrant golden plumage, is a striking bird species that graces West Virginia’s wetland habitats. Known for its bright colors and cheerful song, this warbler adds a touch of brilliance to its surroundings.
- Size: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-12 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)
Prothonotary Warblers breed in the southeastern United States and parts of West Virginia, inhabiting swampy forests, bottomlands, and wooded wetlands. During the winter, they migrate to Central and South America.
Listen to the distinctive and melodic song of the Prothonotary Warbler, a series of sweet and whistling notes, performed by Andrew Spencer (XC414210), accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/414210.
These warblers primarily feed on insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, which they capture by gleaning from foliage or making short aerial sallies. They may occasionally consume berries and fruit.
Prothonotary Warblers construct their nests in tree cavities or artificial nest boxes near water sources, such as rivers or swamps. These nests are made of moss, leaves, and bark, lined with fine plant fibers and feathers. After an incubation period of approximately 12-14 days, the eggs hatch, and the young birds fledge in about 9-12 days.
To attract Prothonotary Warblers to your wetland habitat, provide suitable nesting boxes near water sources. Maintaining a healthy and diverse wetland ecosystem with plenty of insect activity will also enhance their presence.
Strategies for Attracting Warblers to Your Backyard
While warblers may not be frequent visitors to backyard feeders like other songbirds, there are ways to entice these melodious creatures to your yard:
- If your yard offers ample space, providing trees willbe beneficial.
- Maintain brush piles and embrace a slightly untidy environment to create a suitable habitat for insects, a potential food source for warblers.
- Avoid using pesticides or herbicides to ensure the availability of insects while safeguarding birds from consuming harmful substances.
- Offer a clean water source to quench their thirst.
- Consider providing mealworms, preferably live ones, but dried ones will suffice if necessary.
- Install bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, and suet to attract warblers.