Above: Orange-crowned Warbler by Lynnea Parker
What Does It Look Like?
These olive to yellowish and grey-coloured songbirds have a thin bill, short wings and tail. The coverts found under the tail are brighter yellow. The orange patch on top of the head, for which they are named, is most often seen when birds are excited. A black stripe runs through the middle of the eye and a whitish to yellow stripe is found above the eye. A partial white eye ring is also present.
Does It Migrate?
In the winter months, the Orange-crowned Warbler (Oreothlypis celata) may be found in coastal areas of the USA (as far north as British Columbia in the west, and New England in the east). Many individuals winter in Mexico to Guatemala and Belize. It is a nocturnal migrant.
Above: Orange-crowned Warbler by Bob Shettler
Where Does It Live?
The nominate subspecies (four subspecies are officially recognized) is found in Manitoba and breeds in and near the boreal forest from Alaska to Labrador (excluding much of the Atlantic provinces) and barely enters the USA. Its distribution in Manitoba is somewhat inconsistent. Information on the range of other subspecies may be found here: https://www.birdatlas.mb.ca/accounts/speciesaccount.jsp?sp=OCWA&lang=en
Where Can I See It?
Be on the lookout for this species along shrubby boreal forest edges and rights-of-way, and in city parks and lawns during migration.
Above: Orange-crowned Warbler by Bob Shettler
Conservation
Population trends in Canada seem to be secure, with slight decreases in Manitoba.
Did You Know?
The Orange-crowned Warbler possesses a highly variable repertoire of songs; in fact, individual males may be recognized by their song patterns.
Above: Orange-crowned Warbler by Lynnea Parker