Blackburnian Warbler
Setophaga fusca
The Blackburnian Warbler is a rare vagrant to western Europe, including Britain, where it may be spotted during migration periods, typically in the autumn. It is most likely to be seen in the southern and eastern regions of the country, particularly in areas with coniferous woodland.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Blackburnian Warbler in the field.
The Blackburnian Warbler can be identified by its bright orange throat patch, yellow breast, and white wing bars, which distinguish it from other warbler species. Its black back and white stripes above the eye are also notable features.
The Blackburnian Warbler is smaller than a Starling, measuring around 10-11 cm in length.
The male Blackburnian Warbler has a distinctive black back, orange throat patch, and yellow breast, with white wing bars and white stripes above the eye, which are more vibrant during the breeding season.
The female Blackburnian Warbler has similar plumage to the male, but with less intense colours, particularly on the throat patch and breast.
The Blackburnian Warbler's call is a sharp, high-pitched "zip" or "tick", while its song is a series of rapid, musical phrases.
The Blackburnian Warbler is an active, agile bird that forages for insects and spiders in the canopy of coniferous trees, often flying between branches with a rapid, darting motion.
The Blackburnian Warbler may be confused with the Yellow Warbler or the Chestnut-sided Warbler, but can be distinguished by its bright orange throat patch and black back, which are unique among these species.
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