The Blackburnian Warbler: A Beautiful Bird of the North
The Blackburnian Warbler is a small, lively bird with striking colors that make it a favorite among birdwatchers. This species is named after Anna Blackburne, an 18th-century botanist who discovered and collected specimens of this bird in Pennsylvania.
Basic Description
The Blackburnian Warbler has a bright orange throat and breast, black head, back and wings, white belly, and two white wing bars. The female has less vibrant colors but still shares the same pattern as the male. These birds are about four to five inches long with a wingspan of seven to eight inches.
Where To Find This Bird
This warbler breeds in Canada’s boreal forests across much of its range; they then migrate through eastern North America during springtime before returning again for wintering in South America.
Habitat
Blackburnian Warblers prefer spruce-fir forests or mixed hardwood woodlands near water sources such as streams or swamps. They usually nest in conifers like hemlock trees because it offers plenty of cover from predators.
Food
The diet consists mainly of insects like moths, caterpillars or beetles found on leaves either by gleaning them off directly or picking them out while hovering above foliage.
Cool Facts
– The scientific name for this warbler is Setophaga fusca.
– During migration season males can get very territorial over females competing to display their most colorful feathers to attract mates.
– In New England folklore these birds are called ‘Fire-throated Canaries’ because their brightly colored throats resemble flames seen flickering from afar.
– One fun fact about these little guys: you can identify them by their songs! Males typically sing three songs per minute consisting of high-pitched trills that last around 1 second each.
In conclusion ,the Blackburnian Warbler may be small but is a beautiful bird that can be seen flying through the forested regions of North and South America. Whether you are an experienced birder or new to the hobby, this vibrant species is sure to catch your eye with its fiery colors and distinct songs.
