A Yellow-rumped Warbler (scientific name: Setophaga coronata) is one of the most common and widespread migratory songbirds in North America, known for their adaptability and distinctive yellow patches.
Physical Description
The appearance of the Yellow-rumped Warbler changes with the seasons and varies by subspecies.
- Breeding Males: In spring and summer, males have a striking pattern of slate-blue backs, a bold black chest, and a white belly. They also have bright yellow patches on the rump, crown, and sides of their chest.
- Females and Winter Birds: Females and males in non-breeding plumage are more subdued, with a duller brownish-gray body and streaks. However, the identifying yellow rump is still present, though it may be less vibrant.
- Subspecies: The two main subspecies are the eastern Myrtle Warbler (which has a white throat) and the western Audubon's Warbler (which has a yellow throat).
Habitat and Diet
Yellow-rumped Warblers are highly versatile birds that can be found in a variety of habitats. They breed in coniferous and mixed forests across North America, from Alaska to the Appalachian Mountains. During migration and in winter, they move to more open areas like woodlands, thickets, and parks.
Their diet is primarily insects and spiders, which they catch in flight or glean from leaves. Uniquely among warblers, they have a special ability to digest the waxy coating on berries, such as those from bayberry and wax myrtle. This allows them to survive farther north in the winter than other warblers, when insect populations are low.
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