ID Keys: Plain olive upperparts, yellow on chest with dark streaks
on sides, 2 white wingbars.
The Pine Warbler is aptly named, as they strongly prefer pine
forests and woodlands during the summer breeding season. They are more
sluggish than many of the warblers, and can be found slowly foraging at almost
any level of the forest, from the ground to the treetops. Unlike most
warblers who tend to migrate between summer breeding grounds and wintering
grounds, Pine Warblers in much of the southeastern United States are permanent
residents.
Habitat
Is almost always found in pine forests during the summer breeding season, especially sandy pine barrens with a scrubby undergrowth. They can be found in a wider variety of wooded and brushy habitats during winter months.
Diet
Strongly prefers insects and spiders in all seasons, but when not available, will also feed on pine seeds, seeds of weeds and grasses, and berries.
Behavior
Unusual behavior for a warbler in many respects, including its willingness to feed on seeds and berries, and even attend feeders for suet and other offerings, and behaves rather sluggishly compared to most warblers.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Song is one-pitched musical trilling. Click here to listen to the Pine Warbler's song.
Migration
Summers in much of the eastern United States where pine forests are present, and extreme Southeastern Canada. Winters in much of the southeastern United States. Note many birds in the southeastern U.S. permanent residents, as are those in the Caribbean.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Pine Warbler sightings
Similar Species
Fall plumaged birds similar to fall plumaged Bay-breasted Warblers and Blackpoll Warblers . Also possibly confused with Yellow-throated Vireo .
Bird Feeder
Will attend feeders for suet and other similar offerings.
Conservation Status
Numbers appear to be stable and possibly on the rise.
Photo Information
February 13th, 2008 - Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Alabama - Terry Sohl
