Warblers

Orange-crowned Warbler Length 5 in. Weight 0.3 oz.
Common Yellow-throat Length 5 in. Weight 0.4 oz.

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Many species of warblers pass through our valley during the spring and fall migrations. These birds make these seasons special for North American birders with their varied and often spectacular plumage, beautiful songs, and the novelty they bring. Of all the warblers seen here, only two are considered indigenous, and both present interesting challenges. The orange-crowned warbler is seen year-round, but a bird spotted in summer is almost certainly not the same individual seen in winter. Their migration areas overlap, placing us right in the middle! The common yellowthroat is our truly year-round warbler, but it is rarely seen. Very shy, it is more often identified by its distinctive song (which sounds like “witchety-witchety-witchety”) than by sight. However, keep an eye out for this unique bird. The male’s Lone-Ranger mask makes it a very rewarding sight.

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