Northern Waterthrush
Parkesia noveboracensis
The Northern Waterthrush is a rare vagrant to Britain, with sightings typically occurring during migration periods, often in wetland areas or near coastal regions. It is most likely to be seen in the UK during the autumn, particularly in the western and southern counties.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Northern Waterthrush in the field.
The Northern Waterthrush can be identified by its distinctive yellowish-brown plumage, white eyebrow stripe, and dark brown streaks on its breast and flanks. Its rounded tail and short, pinkish legs are also notable features.
The Northern Waterthrush is slightly larger than a Blue Tit, measuring around 12-14 cm in length.
The male Northern Waterthrush has a brown back, wings, and tail, with a yellowish-brown breast and belly, and dark brown streaks on its breast and flanks, with a white eyebrow stripe above its eye.
The female Northern Waterthrush is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage.
The Northern Waterthrush has a distinctive, loud, and melodic song, often described as a series of sweet, whistled phrases, while its call is a sharp, metallic "chip" or "tink" sound.
The Northern Waterthrush is a ground-feeding bird, often seen walking or running on the ground in search of insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates, and it has a distinctive, bobbing gait.
The Northern Waterthrush can be confused with the Louisiana Waterthrush, but can be distinguished by its brighter, more yellowish-brown plumage, and its white eyebrow stripe, which is typically more pronounced than in the Louisiana Waterthrush.
Quick Facts
Who's spotted this?
Loading...
Recent community sightings
Loading recent sightings...
