The Black-throated Green Warbler (Setophaga virens) is a small songbird that measures around 4.5 to 5 inches in length and weighs approximately 0.3 to 0.4 ounces. This warbler is sexually dimorphic, with males sporting a distinctive black throat and face, yellow cheek patch, and olive-green back and wings, while females have a duller green coloration overall with a light yellow or white throat.

During the breeding season, Black-throated Green Warblers can be found in the eastern forests of North America, from Newfoundland and Labrador to the southern Appalachians, with their range extending as far west as Minnesota. In the winter months, these warblers migrate to the Caribbean and Central America, with some populations even making their way as far south as northern South America.

Black-throated Green Warblers can be easily identified in the field by their striking plumage and distinctive song. Their song is a high-pitched, buzzy “zee-zee-zee-zoo-zee” that rises in pitch at the end. They also have a call note that sounds like “tsit.” In addition, these warblers have a characteristic habit of flicking their tails while foraging for insects in the foliage of trees.

In terms of habitat, Black-throated Green Warblers can be found in a variety of forest types, including both deciduous and coniferous forests. They tend to favor areas with a dense understory and are often found in areas with abundant ferns and other ground vegetation. During migration, they can also be seen in a variety of habitats, including parks and gardens.

Overall, the Black-throated Green Warbler is a beautiful and highly migratory songbird with a distinctive appearance and vocalizations. Its ability to thrive in a variety of forest habitats and adapt to seasonal changes in its range makes it an important and fascinating species to observe and study.