Canada Warbler
Credit: E. Meleg
Wilsonia canadensis
Description
- Typical warbler size bird (12 cm), it is nicknamed the “Necklaced” warbler for its bold black necklace.
- Throat, chest and belly are yellow.
- Has a prominent white eye ring.
- Back is slate grey and under the tail is white.
- Females and juveniles are similar but duller in colour.
Food
- Feeds mainly on flying insects and spiders.
Habits and Reproduction
- Despite its name, this warbler doesn’t spend much time in this country. It is one of the last warblers to arrive (early June) and the first to leave (early September) for its wintering grounds in South America.
- Nests on or near ground usually in a hummock or at the base of shrubs.
- Clutch size of 2-6 eggs.
Threats
- Brown-headed Cowbirds lay their eggs in the Canada warbler’s nests and the young cowbirds out compete the young warblers (brood parasitism).
- Loss and degradation of habitat in both the breeding and over wintering habitat.
Conservation Actions
- If you’re a coffee drinker, try to buy shade grown, preferably organic coffee. You’ll help protect over wintering habitat for many of our song birds.
- Choose wood products that are harvested from certified FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) forests.
- Purchase paper products that are 100 percent post consumer recycled content.
Range Map
