Yellow-rumped Warbler

What it is

The yellow-rumped warbler (Setophaga coronata) is a North American bird species combining four closely related forms: the eastern myrtle warbler (ssp coronata); its western counterpart, Audubon's warbler (ssp group auduboni); the northwest Mexican black-fronted warbler (ssp nigrifrons); and the Guatemalan Goldman's warbler (ssp goldmani).

Where and when to find it

Habitat

You can find them all across the US! They like forests, parks, and even your backyard, especially during migration.

How to find it

Look for small, active birds in trees and bushes. Listen for their quick, trilling song. That yellow patch on their rump is a great clue!

Best time of day

Fall and spring during migration, but you can see them in many places in winter too. Early mornings are often best.

How it lives

What it eats

Insects like caterpillars and mosquitoes, also berries.

What eats it

Larger birds of prey, domestic cats, snakes.

Worth knowing

• They are one of the most common warblers in North America.
• The 'butter butt' nickname comes from their bright yellow rump.
• They can even digest the wax from bayberries and myrtle berries.
• There are two main groups: the 'Myrtle' warbler in the east and the 'Audubon's' warbler in the west.
• They often flick their tails, showing off their yellow patch.
• Some will even catch insects right out of the air like a flycatcher.

Why it matters

Yellow-rumped Warblers help control insect populations. They also spread seeds from the berries they eat.