Canada Warblers won’t technically use your bird feeder, but they’re likely to be in the trees this week while you’re enjoying other birds if you live in the mid to eastern United States. Don’t miss these colorful and enchanting little birds as they come through your area.
Identifying a Canada Warbler
Canada Warblers are colorful and highly active who breed in northern wooded areas. These spunky birds spend only short periods in those breeding grounds due to an extremely long migration, all the way into South America for the winter.
When attempting to identify a Canada Warbler, look for a small bird singing loudly. The throat, chest and most of the belly will be a brilliant yellow, with slate colored black feathers on the back. One of the distinctive features of these warblers is a black jewel-like ring around the upper chest that resembles a necklace.
Preferred Warbler Food
The Canada Warbler is almost exclusively an insect eating bird. Occasionally they will eat from a mealworm feeder, but are more likely to find their own food. Don’t worry about putting out food for these birds. Their sensitive beaks make them excellent hunters of flying insects like mosquitoes and flies.
Nesting Habits
If you live in northern North America, you might see Canada Warblers nesting in your area. They do not nest in urban areas. As ground nesters, they would be too vulnerable. Look for a small and well hidden nest in low brush.
If you’re lucky enough to spot a Canada Warbler this week, enjoy their fleeting yellow feathers for a day or two, that’s all they will stay. Then, look for them to be back in late October.