Cerulean Warbler
NameCerulean Warbler
Common NameCerulean Warbler
Scientific NameSetophaga cerulea
FamilyParulidae
Wingspan (cm)20.5
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales have brilliant cerulean blue upperparts, a white throat and belly, and a narrow black breast band. They also show black streaking on the flanks and back, and two prominent white wing bars. Females are duller, with greenish-blue upperparts and yellowish-white underparts, lacking the distinct breast band.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a buzzy, ascending series of notes, often described as 'zray zray zray zreeee'. It also has a sharp 'chip' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds in eastern North America, primarily in the Appalachian Mountains and Mississippi River valley. Winters in northern South America, particularly in the Andes.
Identifying Featurescerulean blue upperparts (male), white underparts with narrow black breast band (male), two white wing bars, streaked flanks and back (male), small size, canopy dwelling
Description
This small songbird is known for its striking cerulean blue plumage in males, contrasting with white underparts and dark streaking. It typically forages high in the canopy of mature deciduous forests, often gleaning insects from leaves and twigs.
