Audubon's Warbler

The Audubon's warbler, a member of the Parulidae family, is a small and sprightly bird. In breeding plumage, the male boasts a striking yellow throat, a dark head, and a dark back, while the female is less vivid, with more subdued yellow and brown tones. Both sexes display a characteristic yellow rump that is a hallmark of the species.

Identification Tips

Adult males in breeding plumage can be identified by their bright yellow throats and flanks, contrasting with their black heads and backs. Females and juveniles are more muted, with females showing less yellow and more brown, and juveniles having incomplete wing panels. In non-breeding plumage, males have a grey and black back with black streaks on the breast, while females and juveniles are lighter and browner. The absence of a whitish eyestripe and the presence of a yellow throat and cheek patch distinguish this bird from the similar myrtle warbler.

Habitat

Audubon's warblers favor coniferous forests during the breeding season. They can also be found in deciduous woodlands in spring and summer, and migrate to open, shrubby areas in fall and winter.

Distribution

This bird is found across western North America, breeding from the United States to Canada and wintering in Central America. Its range extends from western Canada through the western United States and into Mexico.

Behaviour

Audubon's warblers are active birds, often seen flitting between branches as they forage. They catch insects in the warmer months and form flocks to feed on berries during the colder seasons. Their breeding behavior involves nesting in trees, where they lay four to five eggs in a cup-shaped nest.

Song & Calls

The song of the Audubon's warbler is a simple trill, complemented by a sharp "check" call.

Breeding

These warblers breed in a variety of coniferous and mixed woodlands, constructing their nests in trees.

Similar Species

The myrtle warbler is similar in appearance but can be differentiated by its whitish eyestripe and lack of a yellow throat.

Diet and Feeding

Insects make up the diet during the warmer months, while berries are consumed in the fall and winter when the birds migrate to more open areas.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Audubon's warbler is not explicitly mentioned, but as a subspecies of the yellow-rumped warbler, it is generally considered to be of least concern.