In the realm of Washington, during the seasons of spring and summer, when warblers make their grand appearance, yellow birds are a familiar sight. Some even choose to stay during the winter, although in lesser numbers.
This comprehensive guide has been crafted with the purpose of aiding you in the identification of yellow birds you spot in Washington. It provides you with an assortment of valuable resources, including pictures, identification information, song recordings, and details about their migration patterns.
Warblers, orioles, and tanagers are the most common types of yellow birds found in Washington. It’s worth noting that female birds of these species may possess distinct appearances that differ greatly from their male counterparts.
The abundance of information contained within this guide will undoubtedly facilitate the process of identifying yellow birds. To assist you further, I have arranged the list of yellow birds according to the frequency of sightings reported in Washington during the months of May and June, as documented by ebird checklists.
Yellow birds in Washington throughout the year include the Yellow-rumped Warbler, Western Meadowlark, Evening Grosbeak, and Lesser Goldfinch. During the summer season, you can also encounter the American Goldfinch, Cedar Waxwing, Common Yellowthroat, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Western Tanager, Western Kingbird, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Nashville Warbler, and American Redstart. As for the winter season, keep an eye out for the Palm Warbler and Tropical Kingbird.
Take a leap into the following sections of this guide to uncover the secrets of these vibrant yellow birds you have glimpsed.
The realm of Washington shelters a total of 17 splendid yellow birds, each with its own unique characteristics and allure.
1. American Goldfinch
Identification: The American Goldfinch exhibits vibrant black and yellow plumage during the spring season. In the winter, both males and females display a more subdued brown appearance.
Scientific Name: Spinus tristis
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm), Weight – 0.4-0.7 oz (11-20 g), Wingspan – 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Habitat: American Goldfinches are widespread across North America, with some populations migrating to the southern states during the winter. They can be found in weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and backyards.
Song: Experience the delightful melodies of the American Goldfinch through their unique song.
2. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Identification: Gray with flashes of yellow on the face, sides, and rump, this species undergoes a transformation during the breeding season. Females and winter birds exhibit paler brown plumage, with bright yellow rumps and sides in the spring.
Scientific Name: Setophaga coronata
Physical Attributes: 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)
Habitat: Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian mountains. They migrate to southern and southwestern US states, the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America. During the breeding season, they inhabit coniferous forests, while in winter, they can be found in open areas with fruiting shrubs.
Song: Delight in the unique song of the Yellow-rumped Warbler as you immerse yourself in nature’s harmonies.
3. Cedar Waxwing
Identification: Elegant and sociable, Cedar Waxwings showcase pale brown heads, chests, and crests that fade into gray on their backs and wings. Their bellies boast a pale yellow hue, with bright yellow accents on their tails. A narrow black mask adorns their eyes, and their wingtips feature a striking shade of red.
Scientific Name: Bombycilla cedrorum
Physical Attributes: Length – 5.5-6.7 in (14-17 cm), Weight – 1.1 oz (32 g), Wingspan – 8.7-11.8 in (22-30 cm)
Habitat: Cedar Waxwings primarily inhabit berry bushes, woodlands, grasslands, towns, and areas near streams. They mainly feed on fruit, but insects also form part of their diet during the summer.
Song: Immerse yourself in the melodious calls of the Cedar Waxwing, a true auditory delight.
4. Common Yellowthroat
Identification: Common Yellowthroats are small songbirds characterized by brownish backs and vibrant yellow undersides. Males display black masks across their faces, while the intensity of yellow can vary geographically, and females may exhibit a more olive hue.
Scientific Name: Geothlypis trichas
Physical Attributes: 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)
Habitat: Common Yellowthroats breed across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. While some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest year-round, others embark on migrations to the south. They thrive in marshy or wetland areas and brushy fields with dense vegetation.
Song: Dive into the enchanting melody of the Common Yellowthroat and let its harmonies whisk you away.
5. Orange-crowned Warbler
Identification: With their yellow-olive coloring, Orange-crowned Warblers may not possess the same vibrancy as other warblers. The orange crown, which is rarely visible, adds a touch of uniqueness to their appearance.
Scientific Name: Leiothlypis celata
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm), Weight – 0.3-0.4 oz (7-11 g), Wingspan – 7.5 in (19 cm)
Habitat: Orange-crowned Warblers breed in Canada, western US states, and can be seen across the US during migration, excluding the northeastern region. They frequent shrubs, low vegetation, and open woodlands while foraging for insects, spiders, fruit, berries, and seeds.
Song: Let the captivating song of the Orange-crowned Warbler transport you to the heart of nature.
6. Yellow Warbler
Identification: Yellow Warblers grace the Washington region during the breeding season, arriving in April and embarking on migration journeys in October. They are small, bright yellow birds with yellow-green backs. Males showcase chestnut streaks on their breasts, while females and juveniles possess less vibrancy.
Scientific Name: Setophaga petechia
Physical Attributes: 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)
Habitat: Yellow Warblers undertake extensive migrations to breed in Canada and the US, excluding southeastern states. During migration, they traverse southeastern US states. Along streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, they tirelessly hunt for insects, caterpillars, midges, beetles, and more.
Song: Be captivated by the beautiful melodies of the Yellow Warbler and let them transport you to a realm of tranquility.
7. Western Meadowlark
Identification: Western Meadowlarks, present in Washington throughout the year, are most abundant from March to June. These charming birds boast bright yellow bellies and enchant with their melodious songs.
Scientific Name: Sturnella neglecta
Physical Attributes: Length – 6.3-10.2 in (16-26 cm), Weight – 3.1-4.1 oz (89-115 g), Wingspan – 16.1 in (41 cm)
Habitat: Western Meadowlarks predominantly inhabit grasslands, meadows, and fields. They prefer open areas rather than woodlands or dense shrubby vegetation. Their diet includes insects and seeds, with a higher preference for insects during summer and seeds and grains during winter.
Song: Revel in the delightful series of tweets, warbles, and whistles that compose the mesmerizing song of the Western Meadowlark.
8. Wilson’s Warbler
Identification: Wilson’s Warblers make their presence known in western Washington during the breeding season and during migration across the rest of the state. Males exhibit large black caps, while females possess smaller black caps.
Scientific Name: Cardellina pusilla
Physical Attributes: 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)
Habitat: Wilson’s Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern US states. They can be observed across all US states during migration, excluding the northeastern region. During foraging, they seek out insects, larvae, and spiders in shrubs, low vegetation, and near forest edges.
Song: Allow the melodious tunes of the Wilson’s Warbler to envelop you and transport you to a world of natural harmony.
9. Western Tanager
Identification: Male Western Tanagers dazzle with their flaming orange-red heads, yellow bodies, and black wings. Females possess red faces and yellow-green bodies, creating a captivating contrast.
Scientific Name: Piranga ludoviciana
Physical Attributes: Length – 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm), Weight – 0.8-1.3 oz (24-36 g), Wingspan – 8.7-11.8 in (22-30 cm)
Habitat: Western Tanagers breed in western US states and western Canada, migrating across the entire US during their travels. In winter, they seek refuge in Mexico and Central America. These birds inhabit open conifer forests, blending into the canopy despite their vibrant plumage.
Song: Immerse yourself in the melodious symphony of the Western Tanager as its calls resonate through the natural landscape.
10. Evening Grosbeak
Identification: Evening Grosbeaks, while vulnerable in Washington, can be spotted during the breeding season in the northern and western regions of the state. In winter, they migrate to the southeastern areas, while some individuals remain throughout the year.
Scientific Name: Hesperiphona vespertina
Physical Attributes: Length – 16 to 22 cm (6.3 to 8.7 in), Weight – 38.7 to 86.1 g (1.37 to 3.04 oz), Wingspan – 30 to 36 cm (12 to 14 in)
Habitat: Evening Grosbeaks are often found in forests and mountainous regions. During winter, they are drawn to backyard feeders due to the readily available food supply. Their diet consists of flower buds during spring, insect larvae during summer, and a variety of seeds, berries, and small fruits in winter.
Song: Delight in the harmonious melodies of the Evening Grosbeak, an auditory treat that resonates within the natural surroundings.
11. Lesser Goldfinch
Identification: The Lesser Goldfinch showcases a vibrant yellow coloration, with males featuring a black cap and back. Females possess a more subdued appearance with olive-green upperparts.
Scientific Name: Spinus psaltria
Physical Attributes: Length – 4-4.5 in (10-11 cm), Weight – 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g), Wingspan – 7-8 in (18-20 cm)
Habitat: Lesser Goldfinches are commonly found in shrubby areas, woodlands, and open habitats across western North America. They have a preference for habitats with abundant thistles and other seed-bearing plants.
Song: Immerse yourself in the melodious trills and warbles of the Lesser Goldfinch, adding a touch of musical beauty to your surroundings.
12. American Goldfinch
Identification: American Goldfinches exhibit vibrant yellow plumage in the breeding season, while both males and females sport a more subdued brown appearance during winter.
Scientific Name: Spinus tristis
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm), Weight – 0.4-0.7 oz (11-20 g), Wingspan – 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Habitat: American Goldfinches can be found in weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and backyards. They are attracted to areas with sunflower, thistle, and aster plants.
Song: Delight in the melodious tunes of the American Goldfinch as they grace the air with their uplifting melodies.
13. Palm Warbler
Identification: Palm Warblers feature a bright yellow underbelly, olive-brown upperparts, and a distinct rusty cap. During the breeding season, they develop chestnut streaks on their breasts.
Scientific Name: Setophaga palmarum
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm), Weight – 0.4-0.5 oz (12-14 g), Wingspan – 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Habitat: Palm Warblers breed in the northern boreal forests of North America and can be found in wet thickets and bogs during migration. They prefer open areas with low vegetation.
Song: Immerse yourself in the cheerful melodies of the Palm Warbler as they brighten up the surrounding landscape.
14. Tropical Kingbird
Identification: Tropical Kingbirds exhibit a bright yellow underside, olive-green upperparts, and a gray head. They have a distinct white throat and a broad black mask that extends from the bill to the eyes.
Scientific Name: Tyrannus melancholicus
Physical Attributes: Length – 8.3-9.1 in (21-23 cm), Weight – 1.3-1.5 oz (36-42 g), Wingspan – 15.7-16.9 in (40-43 cm)
Habitat: Tropical Kingbirds breed in southern Texas and southward into Mexico and Central America. They inhabit open woodlands, savannas, and forest edges.
Song: Listen to the melodious calls and vocalizations of the Tropical Kingbird, adding a touch of tropical ambiance to your surroundings.
15. Yellow Warbler
Identification: Yellow Warblers are small, bright yellow birds with a yellow-green back. Males showcase chestnut streaks on their breasts, while females and juveniles possess less vibrancy.
Scientific Name: Setophaga petechia
Physical Attributes: 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)
Habitat: Yellow Warblers migrate long distances to breed in Canada and the US, favoring streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges for foraging.
Song: Let the melodious tunes of the Yellow Warbler transport you to a realm of natural serenity.
16. Nashville Warbler
Identification: Nashville Warblers display a bright yellow underbelly, olive-green upperparts, and a distinct gray hood that covers their head and neck. They have a white eyering, and males possess chestnut streaks on their flanks.
Scientific Name: Leiothlypis ruficapilla
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.3-4.7 in (11-12 cm), Weight – 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g), Wingspan – 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm)
Habitat: Nashville Warblers breed in the boreal forests of Canada and the northern US, favoring dense vegetation near streams and wetlands.
Song: Delight in the melodic warbles and trills of the Nashville Warbler, creating a serene atmosphere in nature’s symphony.
17. American Redstart
Identification: Male American Redstarts feature striking black and orange plumage, while females possess olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts. Both sexes have distinct patches of orange in their wings and tails.
Scientific Name: Setophaga ruticilla
Physical Attributes: Length – 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm), Weight – 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g), Wingspan – 6.3-7.5 in (16-19 cm)
Habitat: American Redstarts breed in deciduous and mixed forests across North America, favoring dense shrubs and undergrowth.
Song: Immerse yourself in the energetic and vibrant songs of the American Redstart, infusing the air with their lively melodies.
Continue your exploration of the diverse avian world, embracing the beauty of these yellow birds that grace the landscapes of Washington with their presence.