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Black and White Warebler
Mniotilta varia
41.5067, -83.1466
Field Notes
Description:
Distinctive in both plumage and behavior, the Black-and-white Warbler forages for insects while creeping along the trunks and branches of trees. Common in summer throughout the eastern United States and Canada, it has an unusually extensive winter range that extends from Florida to Venezuela and Colombia.
Adult Description
•Small warbler.
•Black-and-white striped plumage.
•Striped crown.
Male Description
Strongly contrasting black-and-white stripes on head and upperparts. Two white wingbars. White eyestripe. Eyering white. Lores and ear patch black. Throat black. Underparts white with bold black streaks.
Female Description
Striped on crown and upperparts, with moderate contrast between black and white. Cheeks, chin, and throat dull whitish or gray. Underparts mostly white, with gray streaks, mostly on flanks.
Immature Description
Similar to adult female.
Habitat:
Breeds in mature and second-growth deciduous and mixed forests. Winters in variety of habitats from disturbed areas to mature forests.
Notes:
Cool Facts
• The Black-and-white Warbler has an unusually long hind toe and claw on each foot. This adaptation allows it to move securely on the surface of tree bark.
•Unusually aggressive for a warbler, the Black-and-white Warbler sometimes attacks and fights Red-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee, Tennessee Warbler, and other species.
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