Blue-winged Warbler

Vermivora pinus

The Blue-winged Warbler is a close relative of the Golden-winged Warbler.   The Blue-winged Warbler has slowly expanded its range to the north in recent decades, encroaching on the breeding grounds of the Golden-winged Warbler.  Where the two species coexist, they may interbreed, producing the intermediate hybrids sometimes called "Lawrence's Warbler" or "Brewster's Warbler".  It appears that the Blue-winged Warbler is outcompeting the Golden-winged Warbler and is causing a decline in the latter species.

Habitat: During the summer breeding season, they are found in brushy fields, fencerows, open forest with a shrubby undergrowth, and woodland edges.  Usually found in similar habitat during migration and in winter.

Diet: Feeds on insects and spiders.

Behavior: Climbs and flies through foliage, gleaning insects from foliage and tree branches, and probing with its bill in crevices and leaves.

Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota

Song:  A dry beee-buzzzzzz song, and a sharp tisk call note.  Click here to hear the Blue-winged Warbler's Call.. 

Migration: Summers the the eastern United States from southern Wisconsin down through northern Arkansas, and eastward to the Atlantic coast.  Migrates to the tropics for the winter.

Similar Species: Yellow Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler

South Dakota "Hotspot": The area along Sergeant Creek, in Newton Hills State Park in Lincoln County, has hosted breeding Blue-winged Warblers several summers in recent years.

Conservation Status: Seems to be stable throughout its normal range.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Blue-winged Warbler

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Blue-winged Warbler"

3) eNature.com: Blue-winged Warbler

Photo Information: Photo courtesy of Matt Orsie.