Black-throated Blue Warbler
NameBlack-throated Blue Warbler
Common NameBlack-throated Blue Warbler
Scientific NameSetophaga caerulescens
FamilyParulidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales have a deep blue back, crown, and tail, with a contrasting black throat, face, and flanks. Their belly is white, and they possess a distinctive white square patch at the base of the primaries. Females are olive-brown above, yellowish-white below, and often show a faint white wing patch.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a buzzy, slurred 'zwee-zwee-zwee-zwee-zweee' or 'I-am-so-lazy'. Their call is a sharp 'chip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in mature deciduous and mixed forests of eastern North America, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains, New England, and southeastern Canada. Winters primarily in the Greater Antilles and other Caribbean islands.
Identifying FeaturesDeep blue back (male), Black throat and face (male), White belly (male), Prominent white wing patch (male), Olive-brown plumage (female), Yellowish-white underparts (female)
Description
This small, striking warbler is known for the male's deep blue plumage and contrasting black throat. They typically forage in the understory of mature deciduous and mixed forests, often gleaning insects from leaves and branches.
