Kirtland's Warbler
NameKirtland's Warbler
Common NameKirtland's Warbler
Scientific NameSetophaga kirtlandii
FamilyParulidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsMales feature a bright yellow belly with heavy black streaking on the flanks, a gray back, and a prominent black face mask contrasting with a white eye-ring. Females are similar but generally duller, with less distinct streaking and a fainter face mask.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a loud, ringing, and somewhat buzzy series of notes, often described as 'chip-chip-chip-che-way-o' or 'chick-chick-chick-a-wee-o', typically delivered from the top of a jack pine.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds almost exclusively in a small region of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, with some breeding in Wisconsin and Ontario. Winters in the Bahamas.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow belly with heavy black streaks on flanks, Gray back and head, Black face mask (more prominent in males), Prominent white eye-ring, Tail-wagging behavior, Association with young jack pine forests
Description
The Kirtland's Warbler is a medium-sized New World warbler known for its distinctive plumage and tail-wagging behavior. It is a migratory species that breeds almost exclusively in young jack pine forests and winters in the Bahamas, foraging primarily for insects.
