Blackpoll Warbler

The blackpoll warbler (Setophaga striata), a New World warbler, is a small bird with a weight comparable to that of a ballpoint pen. It is one of the larger members of the genus Setophaga. The breeding male is a striking figure with a black and white plumage, a pronounced black cap, and white cheeks, complemented by white wing bars. The females and non-breeding males are less boldly marked, with the females appearing as a paler version of the males and the non-breeding individuals sporting greenish heads and yellowish underparts.

Identification Tips

Adult males in breeding plumage are characterized by black-streaked brown backs, white faces with black crowns, and white underparts with black streaks. They also exhibit two white wing bars. Females and juveniles are more subdued in coloration, with grayish tones on the head and less distinct streaking. All blackpoll warblers have distinctive bright orangish-pink legs, which can be a helpful identification feature.

Habitat

The blackpoll warbler breeds in northern North American forests, ranging from Alaska and across most of Canada to the Adirondack Mountains and New England. They prefer higher elevations in the southern part of their range and are found in boreal coniferous forests closer to the tundra.

Distribution

During the breeding season, these warblers are found in North America, from Alaska to the northeastern United States. They are common migrants across much of the continent. In the fall, they embark on a remarkable journey to the Greater Antilles and northeastern South America, undertaking one of the longest non-stop overwater flights recorded for a migratory songbird.

Behaviour

The blackpoll warbler is somewhat inconspicuous despite its size, often remaining hidden in dense foliage near the tree canopy. It is more often heard than seen, with a high-pitched song consisting of simple repetitions of high "tsi" notes and thin "sit" calls.

Song & Calls

The song of the blackpoll warbler is a series of high-pitched "tsi" notes, while its call is a thin "sit," both of which can be heard emanating from the treetops during the breeding season.

Breeding

Blackpoll warblers nest in coniferous woodlands, often choosing a low site in a spruce tree to lay their 3-5 eggs. The eggs are incubated for about 12 days, and the young fledge at 10 days old, with parental feeding continuing for approximately two weeks. The species is known for high annual productivity due to low nest predation and parasitism rates.

Similar Species

The blackpoll warbler can be confused with other streaked warblers, but its black and white breeding plumage, bright orangish-pink legs, and distinctive song set it apart from similar species.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, the blackpoll warbler feeds on a variety of insects and spiders, including lice, locusts, cankerworms, mosquitoes, webworms, ants, termites, gnats, aphids, and sawflies. They forage high in trees and may catch insects in flight. During migration and winter, they also consume berries.

Conservation status

The blackpoll warbler is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the survival of this remarkable long-distance migrant.