The Wilson's Warbler is a small, lively bird distinguished by its vibrant yellow plumage and a distinctive black cap on the males. Females are slightly less colorful and usually lack the bold black cap. This warbler is quite petite, with a round, plump appearance that adds to its charm. The Wilson's Warbler is named for the ornithologist who discovered the species for science in 1811: Alexander Wilson.
Wilson's Warblers are known for their energetic foraging behavior. They are often seen hopping among shrubbery and low branches in dense thickets, darting about in search of insects and spiders. Their presence is also marked by a cheerful, chattering song that contributes to the lively atmosphere of their habitats.
These warblers breed across northern North America, from Alaska to northern U.S. states, preferring boggy areas, thickets, and mixed forests. They build their nests close to or on the ground, tucked away under dense cover.
In the winter, Wilson's Warblers migrate to Mexico and Central America, where they continue to inhabit similar dense habitats. Their populations are generally stable, but like many migratory birds, they are vulnerable to habitat loss both in their breeding and wintering grounds.
Researchers in Oregon are working on a huge survey of birds in the state: Oregon 2020. Data from field observations is being compiled to determine the abundance and distribution of Oregon's bird species. The study in part uses data collected by citizen scientists who bird the state and... Read more »
Several warblers are named for their beautiful plumage, like the Black-throated Blue Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, and Chestnut-sided Warbler. But many warblers are named for other traits, including habitat types and physical locations, which may or may not be accurate. Others are named for the naturalists... Read more »
We recently added a few new wood-warblers to Birdorable, including the Wilson's Warbler. Wilson's Warblers are named for the noted ornithologist Alexander Wilson. Wilson's Warblers are cute little yellow and olive birds. Males are unmistakable with their... Read more »
Today's highlighted t-shirt design features six of our Birdorable eastern Wood-Warblers. Have fun learning your warblers with this cute original design from Birdorable! They are: Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Wilson's Warbler and Kirtland's Warbler, shown here on... Read more »
