Parulidae - New World Warblers

The American wood warblers are similar in in size, shape and habits to the old world warblers, to which they are not at all related, though they are generally rather more colourful, particularly the males in full breeding plumage. These similarities arise from convergent evolution, both groups flit amongst vegetation looking for insects. Some species are found amongst the treetops, such as the hyper-active, zebra striped Black-and-White Warbler, while others, such as the Ovenbird, prefer to skulk in dense vegetation near the ground. Most species are highly territorial and even some migratory species, such as the American Redstart, will also defend a territory on their wintering grounds.

Every year, a few individuals (mostly of species that migrate through eastern North America) are blown off-course and end up in western Europe.

Occasional Visitors

Black-and-White Warbler
Golden-winged Warbler
Blue-winged Warbler
Tennessee Warbler
Northern Parula
Yellow Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Blackburnian Warbler
Cape May Warbler
Magnolia Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Blackpoll Warbler
Bay-breasted Warbler
American Redstart
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Yellowthroat
Hooded Warbler
Wilson's Warbler
Canada Warbler



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