Yellow-throated Warbler


The Yellow-throated Warbler (Setophaga dominica) is a small songbird that belongs to the wood-warbler family. This species is mostly found in the southeastern United States, from Texas to Florida, and up to the Atlantic coast of Maryland. Yellow-throated Warblers are easily recognized by their bright yellow throat and black mask that contrasts with their gray upperparts and white underparts.

Yellow-throated Warblers are relatively small, with an average length of 5.5 inches and a wingspan of 8.5 inches. They weigh between 0.3 and 0.4 ounces, making them one of the lighter warbler species. The males and females are very similar in appearance, with the only notable difference being the males’ blacker mask.

Yellow-throated Warblers are migratory, spending the winter months in southern Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of Central America. They begin their migration north in March and April and reach their breeding grounds in May. They prefer mature deciduous or mixed forests, and can often be found foraging for insects high in the canopy. They build their nests in the fork of a tree, about 10 to 60 feet off the ground.

In addition to their bright yellow throat and black mask, the Yellow-throated Warbler has several other distinguishing field marks. They have a distinctive white eyebrow stripe that runs above the eye and a long, slender bill that they use to probe for insects. Their wings are dark with white patches, and their tail is black with white outer feathers. They also have yellow patches on their sides that are visible when they are in flight.

Overall, the Yellow-throated Warbler is a beautiful and distinctive species that can be easily recognized by its bright yellow throat and black mask. Their relatively small size, migratory behavior, and preferred habitat make them a fascinating bird to observe and study.

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