Black-and-white Warbler
Mniotilta varia
The Black-and-white Warbler is a rare vagrant to Britain, typically seen during migration periods, and is most notable for its distinctive black and white striped plumage. It is an occasional visitor to the UK, particularly in the autumn, with sightings mostly confined to the southern and western coasts.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Black-and-white Warbler in the field.
The Black-and-white Warbler can be identified at a glance by its black and white striped back, white wing bars, and distinctive white stripes above and below its eye. Its black throat patch and white undersides also help to distinguish it from other warblers.
The Black-and-white Warbler is slightly smaller than a Willow Warbler, measuring around 10-12 cm in length.
The male Black-and-white Warbler has a black back with white stripes, a white belly, and a black throat patch, with a distinctive black stripe through its eye, while its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
The female Black-and-white Warbler is similar to the male, but with a greyer back and less distinct black throat patch, although the overall pattern of black and white stripes remains the same.
The Black-and-white Warbler's call is a sharp, high-pitched "weep" or "weet", often repeated in a series, while its song is a rapid, musical phrase that sounds like a series of descending notes.
The Black-and-white Warbler is an active and agile bird, often seen climbing up and down tree trunks in search of insects, and has a distinctive, jerky flight style as it flits between branches.
The Black-and-white Warbler can be confused with the Garden Warbler or the Whitethroat, but can be distinguished by its distinctive black and white striped back and white wing bars, as well as its sharp, high-pitched call.
Quick Facts
Who's spotted this?
Loading...
Recent community sightings
Loading recent sightings...
