Magnolia Warbler

The Magnolia Warbler, Setophaga magnolia, is a charmingly petite member of the wood warbler family, Parulidae. This species exhibits a striking plumage, particularly in the breeding males, which are adorned with a mosaic of white, gray, and black across their backs, complemented by vivid yellow flanks. They also boast a distinctive black mask and a white wing patch, known as a wing bar, which is a key feature for identification.

Identification Tips

When observing the Magnolia Warbler, look for the male's unique combination of a black mask, white wing bars, and yellow underparts with black streaking. Females and immature birds are more subdued in color but share similar patterns. The species is small, measuring 11 to 13 cm in length, with a wingspan of 16 to 20 cm. The tail is notably black with white stripes on the underside, which can be a helpful distinguishing characteristic.

Habitat

The Magnolia Warbler breeds in dense, young coniferous forests, often favoring the boughs of spruce and fir trees. It is most commonly found in these habitats across the northern reaches of North America.

Distribution

This warbler's breeding range extends across the northern parts of the United States, including states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, and into the vast boreal forests of Canada. Come winter, it migrates to the southeastern parts of Mexico, Panama, and the Caribbean, traversing the eastern United States during migration.

Behaviour

The Magnolia Warbler is a solitary bird, engaging in a variety of behaviors throughout its life cycle, including molting, breeding, and caring for offspring before embarking on its migratory journey. It is known to live up to seven years in the wild.

Song & Calls

Male Magnolia Warblers are known for their melodious songs, which they use for courtship and territory defense during the breeding season. They have two distinct song types, while females, though vocal, do not exhibit such varied vocalizations. Both sexes use call notes for alerting to predators or other disturbances.

Breeding

Upon arrival at the breeding grounds, males establish territories before the females join them. Together, they construct nests in their preferred coniferous trees, using materials such as grass, twigs, and horsehair fungus. The nests are typically located close to the ground. Females lay three to five eggs per season, which they incubate for about two weeks. Both parents participate in feeding the chicks, which fledge approximately ten days after hatching.

Similar Species

The Magnolia Warbler can be confused with the Prairie Warbler or Kirtland's Warbler, but its distinct black and yellow-striped stomach and habitat preferences help differentiate it from these species.

Diet and Feeding

Caterpillars form the bulk of the Magnolia Warbler's diet, supplemented by various insects, spiders, and occasionally fruit and nectar. They forage at mid-levels in coniferous trees, gleaning prey from the branches.

Conservation status

The IUCN lists the Magnolia Warbler as Least Concern. While some populations are affected by habitat loss and collisions with man-made structures, the species remains widespread and common within its range.