curruca pitonaria

1. Bird Name: The Prothonotary Warbler; Scientific (Latin) name: Protonotaria citrea

2. Appearance: The Prothonotary Warbler has a striking appearance. Its head and underparts are a vibrant golden-yellow, contrasting beautifully against its blue-gray wings and tail. The males and females look similar, although the males are a slightly brighter yellow. Both have large black eyes and a long, pointed beak with a slightly downward curve, ideal for their insectivorous lifestyle.

3. Size: This bird is moderately sized, with an average length of 13-14 cm (5-5.5 inches) and a wingspan of 22-23 cm (8.5-9 inches). A Prothonotary Warbler’s weight range is between 9-14 grams.

4. Habitat & Distribution: The Prothonotary Warbler is mainly a bird of the American continents. They breed in the Eastern United States, favouring flooded forests and swampy woodlands. During the winter, they migrate to the tropical lowlands of Central and South America.

5. Interesting Facts: The Prothonotary Warbler is one of the few bird species that nests in cavities, often choosing holes in trees or nest boxes. Its migration habits are fascinating as it’s often seen flying low, just above the water. The bird derives its name from 17th-century Vatican officials called ‘prothonotaries’ who wore golden robes similar to this bird’s brilliant color.

6. Diet: The Prothonotary Warbler’s diet primarily consists of insects. They consume a variety of insects, including caterpillars, flies, beetles, spiders, and mayflies. During migration or in their winter habitat, they will occasionally eat some seeds and fruits.

7. Behavior & Sounds: Aside from their unique nesting behavior, these Warblers are also known to communicate through song. The males have a melodious, repeated song used to establish territory and attract a mate. Their call has been described as a sweet-sweet-sweet-sweet.

8. Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Prothonotary Warbler is of ‘Least Concern’. However, habitat loss due to destruction of swampy woods continues to be a significant threat and may impact future assessments.

9. Lifespan: In the wild, this bird typically lives for an average of three to five years. Lifespan data in captivity is scarce due to the bird’s migratory nature and preference for specific habitats.

10. Additional Notes: In the Southern United States, these birds are sometimes called ‘swamp canaries’. Research suggests that their dense, flooded forest habitats help to buffer against climate change effects by storing carbon, regulating water flows, and providing habitat for many species, showing their significant role in the ecosystem. Their bright coloration and song add a spark of beauty and melody to their inhabitants, enhancing the human experience of these areas. They are often considered a bird-lovers’ prized sight during bird watching expeditions.