Warblers- ORDER: Passeriformes
- FAMILY: Parulidae
Basic Description
The Hooded Warbler flits through shrubby understories in eastern forests, flicking its tail to show off its white tail feathers. But those flashes are not the only thing that will draw your attention. The male's bright yellow cheeks and forehead surrounded by a black hood and throat will surely capture you. Females lack the bold black hood, but their yellow cheeks still stand out. Listen for their characteristic song on the breeding grounds and their metallic chip on the wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.
More ID InfoFind This Bird
This warbler generally hangs out in the understory of forests, which makes it easier to find than those canopy-loving warblers. On the breeding grounds, listen for their song and watch for quick movements in the understory. They frequently twitch their tail to reveal white tail flashes that can help you locate and ID them. They tend to use forests with a well-developed understory, so be on the lookout for shrubby areas in treefall gaps or along edges.
Other Names
- Reinita Encapuchada (Spanish)
- Paruline à capuchon (French)
Backyard Tips
Hooded Warblers do not visit feeders and may only stop off in your yard during migration, but a bird-friendly backyard full of native trees and shrubs provides an excellent food-rich place for warblers and other migrants to stop and refuel. Read about growing native plants for warblers.