yellow rumped wabler
1. BIRD NAME
English Name: Yellow-rumped Warbler
Scientific Name: Setophaga coronata
2. APPEARANCE
The Yellow-rumped Warbler lives true to its name as it sports a bright lemon-yellow patch on its rump. Its back is streaked black and white, with wings and tail feathers speckled with flashes of white. The bird features two major forms distinguished by color patterns: the Myrtle form is found in the east, with a white throat, two white wing bars, and a black mask, while the Audubon form resides in the west with a yellow throat and no black mask. The male displays a vibrant, dark slate-blue head during the breeding season, with females showing a subtler brown-gray color.
Their sizeable, pointed beaks suited for insect-eating are dark-colored, with the females’ a bit paler at the base. Eyes are typically black, surrounded by a vivid white eye ring, making their eyes a prominent feature.
3. SIZE
Yellow-rumped Warblers are small birds, typically measuring 12-15 centimeters in length. Their wingspan extends to about 23 cm, with males being slightly larger. They are lightweight, ranging between 12.5 to 18 grams.
4. HABITAT & DISTRIBUTION
Primarily residing in North America, Yellow-rumped Warblers are found from Alaska to Mexico and as far east as Newfoundland and the Carolinas. They prefer wooded or forested areas, especially those populated by conifers. During the winter months, they migrate to southern parts of the United States down to Central America. An adaptable species, they can also be located in open woodlands, parks, and gardens.
5. INTERESTING FACTS
Known for their adaptability, Yellow-rumped Warblers are among the first to return to the north in spring and last to leave in fall because they can eat many types of food. They are one of the few warbler species that feed on wax myrtle berries, lending to the name of the “Myrtle” form. Additionally, these birds can digest the waxy fruits of bayberries, allowing them to winter farther north than most warblers.
6. DIET
Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly consume insects like caterpillars, beetles, and gnats. During winter or in instances where insects are scarce, they supplement their diet with fruits and seeds from plants like juniper, poison ivy, and various grasses.
7. BEHAVIOR & SOUNDS
Agile fliers, Yellow-rumped Warblers catch insects in midflight or pick them off vegetation. Their mating display involves the male pursuing the female in a rapid flight while singing. Their typical song is a loose series of uneven, disjointed notes, usually characterized by a single harsh note.
8. CONSERVATION STATUS
These birds are listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. They are quite common and their population appears stable, though habitat loss does pose a threat.
9. LIFESPAN
In the wild, they typically live around 7 years, though the oldest known Yellow-rumped Warbler was recorded to have lived until 8.1 years.
10. ADDITIONAL NOTES
In terms of their role in an ecosystem, Yellow-rumped Warblers consume a significant amount of insects, highlighting their importance in controlling pest populations. Furthermore, they’re quite sociable around humans, often seen in urban parks and backyards during migration. In fact, consider setting out a bird feeder, and you might catch these cheerful birds frequenting your garden!
