| Birds Name | Yellow-rumped warbler |
| Science Name | Setophaga coronata |
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S.coronata |
The Yellow-Rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) is a widespread and well-known species in North America. This bird is commonly observed across the continent, boasting a vast distribution range that connects both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the U.S., Canada, and Central America.
The Yellow-Rumped Warbler is a mid-to-large-sized warbler, measuring between 12 to 15 cm (4.7 to 5.9 inches) in length and weighing between 9.9 to 17.7 grams (0.35 to 0.62 ounces), with a wingspan of 19 to 24 cm (7.5 to 9.4 inches). Breeding males display gray backs with dark streaks, a yellow rump, crown, and flanks, and white wing patches. They have a distinct black cap, white cheeks, and two white wing bars. Females and non-breeding males have more subdued colors with brownish backs and less distinct head patterns. Notably, all subspecies of the Yellow-Rumped Warbler feature the characteristic yellow rump.
| Measurement | Yellow-Rumped Warbler | Prairie Warbler | Blackpoll Warbler | Bay-Breasted Warbler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length (cm) | 12-15 | 12-14 | 12.5-15 | 14 |
| Weight (grams) | 9.9-17.7 | 6-8 | 9.7-21 | 10-14 |
| Wingspan (cm) | 19-24 | 17-20 | 20-25 | 20-22 |
| Wing Chord (cm) | 6.3-8.4 | 6.2-7.2 | 6.6-8 | 6.5-7.0 |
| Tail (cm) | 5-6.6 | 4.2-5.2 | 4.5-5.4 | 4.5-5.0 |
| Bill (cm) | 0.8-1.1 | 0.8-1.0 | 0.8-1.2 | 0.9-1.1 |
| Tarsus (cm) | 1.8-2.2 | 1.7-2.0 | 1.8-2 | 1.7-2.0 |
Taxonomy
The Yellow-Rumped Warbler is part of the genus Setophaga, which includes a diverse range of New World warblers. The genus name Setophaga is derived from Ancient Greek “ses” (moth) and “phagos” (eating), while the specific name coronata means “crowned.” This species combines four closely related forms: the eastern myrtle warbler (spp. coronata), its western counterpart, Audubon’s warbler (spp. auduboni), the northwest Mexican black-fronted warbler (spp. nigrifrons), and the Guatemalan Goldman’s warbler (spp. goldmani).
Distribution and Range
The Yellow-Rumped Warbler breeds across a vast area, from Alaska through most of Canada, to the Adirondack Mountains of New York and New England in the U.S. During the winter, they migrate to the southern U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
| Region | Breeding Season | Winter Season |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska and Canada | Yes | No |
| Eastern United States | Yes | No |
| Southeastern United States | Yes | No |
| Western United States | Yes | No |
| Mexico | No | Yes |
| Central America | No | Yes |
| Caribbean | No | Yes |
| Western Europe | Rare Vagrant | Rare Vagrant |
Population
The global population of Yellow-Rumped Warblers is estimated to be stable, although certain areas face habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their breeding and wintering habitats.
| Region | Estimated Population |
|---|---|
| Northern North America | Stable |
| Eastern United States | Stable |
| Western United States | Stable |
| Mexico | Stable |
| Central America | Stable |
| Caribbean | Stable |
Habitat
During the breeding season, Yellow-Rumped Warblers prefer coniferous forests or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests. In the winter, they are often found in open areas such as shrublands, agricultural fields, and residential areas that offer ample food resources.
| Habitat Type | Presence (Breeding) | Presence (Wintering) |
|---|---|---|
| Coniferous Forests | High | Low |
| Mixed Coniferous-Deciduous Forests | High | Medium |
| Shrublands | Medium | High |
| Agricultural Fields | Low | High |
| Residential Areas | Low | High |
| Mangroves | Low | Medium |
Behavior
Yellow-Rumped Warblers are active foragers, primarily feeding on insects during the breeding season and switching to fruits such as juniper berries in the winter. They are known for their distinctive songs and calls, which vary between subspecies. Males typically sing to defend their territories and attract mates, while both sexes use calls to communicate with each other.
| Behavior | Description |
|---|---|
| Foraging | Insects, spiders, fruits, berries |
| Singing | Distinctive songs, varying between subspecies |
| Migration | Long-distance migrant |
| Nesting | Builds nests in coniferous trees |
Feeding
The diet of Yellow-Rumped Warblers is primarily insectivorous during the breeding season, but they also consume a variety of fruits, especially in the winter. They are known to eat juniper berries, wax myrtle berries, and other available fruits during the non-breeding season.
| Food Type | Percentage of Diet |
|---|---|
| Insects | 70% |
| Spiders | 20% |
| Fruits | 10% |
| Seeds | 5% |
Breeding
Yellow-Rumped Warblers typically breed in coniferous or mixed coniferous-deciduous forests. They build cup-shaped nests in trees, using twigs, bark, and fibers. The female lays 4-5 eggs, which she incubates for about 12-13 days. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after approximately 10-12 days.
| Aspect | Yellow-Rumped Warbler | Prairie Warbler | Blackpoll Warbler | Bay-Breasted Warbler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breeding Season | Late Spring-Summer | Late Spring-Summer | Late Spring-Summer | Late Spring-Summer |
| Nest Location | Coniferous Trees | Shrubs/Low Trees | Spruce/Fir Trees | Spruce/Fir Trees |
| Clutch Size | 4-5 eggs | 3-5 eggs | 4-7 eggs | 4-7 eggs |
| Incubation Period | 12-13 days | 12 days | 12-13 days | 12-13 days |
| Fledging Period | 10-12 days | 10-12 days | 10-12 days | 10-12 days |
Threats
The primary threats to Yellow-Rumped Warblers include habitat destruction due to urbanization and deforestation. Climate change may also impact their migratory patterns and the availability of suitable habitats.
| Threat Type | Yellow-Rumped Warbler | Prairie Warbler | Blackpoll Warbler | Bay-Breasted Warbler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Habitat Loss | High | High | High | High |
| Climate Change | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Predation | Low | Low | Low | Low |
Migration
Yellow-Rumped Warblers are known for their extensive migrations. They leave their breeding grounds in the northern parts of North America in early fall, traveling to the southern U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean for the winter. Their migration includes crossing vast distances, sometimes over open water.
| Species | Migration Distance | Primary Wintering Areas | Migration Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow-Rumped Warbler | Long-Distance | Southern U.S., Mexico, Central America, Caribbean | Fall and Spring |
| Prairie Warbler | Long-Distance | Caribbean, Central America | Fall and Spring |
| Blackpoll Warbler | Long-Distance | Greater Antilles, Northeastern South America | Fall and Spring |
| Bay-Breasted Warbler | Long-Distance | Northeastern South America, Caribbean, Central America | Fall and Spring |
Conclusion
The Yellow-Rumped Warbler is a remarkable bird known for its distinctive plumage and extensive migratory patterns. Understanding its description, taxonomy, distribution, population, habitat, behavior, feeding, breeding, threats, and migration provides a comprehensive overview of this species. As bird enthusiasts and conservationists, it is essential to continue studying and protecting these birds to ensure their survival for future generations to enjoy. Whether you’re observing them in their breeding grounds or during their migration, the Yellow-Rumped Warbler is a delightful addition to any birdwatcher’s list.