Setophaga discolor
The Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) is a small, energetic songbird, measuring approximately 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 in) in length with a wingspan of 16-19 cm (6.3-7.5 in) and weighing around 7-9 grams. Adults are easily identified by their bright yellow underparts, olive-green back, and distinctive black streaks along the flanks, below the eye, and a prominent crescent below the eye. Two yellow wing bars are also present. A unique field mark is its habit of constantly wagging its tail, a behav...
This warbler prefers dry, scrubby woodlands, regenerating clearcuts, forest edges, pine barrens, and coastal thickets, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of small insects and spiders, which they glean from leaves and twigs in dense vegetation.
Prairie Warblers are diurnal and highly active, constantly flicking their tails as they forage low in vegetation. They are territorial during the breeding season, with males vigorously defending their areas through song and displays. Courtship involves the male pursuing the female with a fanned t...
The breeding range of the Prairie Warbler extends across the eastern United States, from southern New England south through Florida, and west to eastern Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and southern Illinois. It is particularly common in the Appalachian foothills and coastal plain. During winter, these...
Least Concern
- Despite its name, the Prairie Warbler is not found in prairies but prefers successional, shrubby habitats and dry, open woodlands. The name comes from Alexander Wilson, who first described it from observations in scrubby clearings he mistakenly called "prairies. - This warbler has a distinctive...