Vitelline Warbler
Setophaga vitellina
A small, brightly colored species of dry woodlands and scrub; sometimes visits suburban gardens and parks. It is very similar to the Prairie Warbler, which has a shorter eyebrow that rarely extends much behind the eye. Many Prairies have blackish streaking on sides, while the Vitelline sometimes has dusky streaking on the sides. Similarly, Prairies usually have a white vent as opposed to the Vitelline’s typical yellow vent. Song typically buzzy with three brief introductory notes followed by a longer up-slurred note and then a long down-slurred note: dzz-dzz-dzz-zzzzee-zzzzuu.
Identification
This species bears a stark resemblance to the prairie warbler, sharing its streaking on the belly, yellow-green back, and subtle yellow wingbars, differing with the intensity of the black streaks. Its song is a string of 4-5 rising harsh buzzy notes.
Taxonomy
This species is part of the large New World warbler genus Setophaga. Currently, there are three subspecies described:<p>These subspecies differ noticeably in underpart coloration and head patterning. Some taxonomists have considered this species conspecific with the North American prairie warbler. However, a genetic study confirmed its species status, while reaffirming a close relationship between the two species.
- Scientific name
- Setophaga vitellina
- Authority
- (Cory, 1886)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Parulidae
- Genus
- Setophaga
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
This species usually occupies dry woodland with considerable scrub, though will tolerate some disturbance, and has begun to occupy more urbanized areas since human arrival.
Conservation
- Population trend
- declining
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
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