Swainson's Warbler
NameSwainson's Warbler
Common NameSwainson's Warbler
Scientific NameLimnothlypis swainsonii
FamilyParulidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsThis warbler has olive-brown upperparts, wings, and tail, with pale whitish to yellowish-buff underparts. A distinctive feature is its prominent pale supercilium (eyebrow stripe) contrasting with a darker eye-line and a rufous-brown crown.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a loud, clear, whistled series of notes, often described as 'whip-poor-will' like but faster and more complex, typically starting with three slurred notes followed by a rapid series of descending whistles.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southeastern United States, primarily in dense, wet deciduous forests and canebrakes. Winters in the Caribbean islands and parts of Central America.
Identifying FeaturesPlain olive-brown upperparts, Pale underparts, Prominent pale supercilium, Rufous-brown crown, Long, slender bill, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Swainson's Warbler is a secretive, medium-sized warbler known for its plain plumage and preference for dense, wet undergrowth. It forages primarily on the ground, often flipping leaves with its long bill to find insects.
