Prothonotary Warbler in Cheshire: Bird Finder for May 18

Prothonotary Warbler
Protonotaria citrea

Prothonotary Warblers are relatively rare in Connecticut but there have been at least two this spring: one at our Larsen Sanctuary, in Fairfield, in late April, and another today (Monday) in Cheshire. 

What it looks like: Prothonotary Warbler is beautiful, with an incredibly bright, mustard-yellow head, throat and belly, slate-blue wings and rump, and an olive-green back. They are a relatively large warbler at 5.5 inches, with a fairly long black bill.

Where to find it: Normally Prothonotary Warblers spend their lives in swampy habitat (wetlands dominated by woody plants) from Virginia south to Florida. They nest in tree cavities, which is highly unusual for warblers – most weave nests on tree limbs or on the ground. Like other warblers, though, they forage for invertebrates.

Its former name was Golden Swamp Warbler, which may have been easier to understand than its present name. It was changed by the American Ornithological Union, which named the species for Roman Catholic priests who wore bright yellow robes in a bygone era.

How to find it: If it is around, it should be easy. Prothonotaries are not a particularly shy bird, and the intense yellow of the head makes it conspicuous. The male that was at our Larsen Sanctuary did not seem to mind the dozens of birders and photographers that came to observe him — nor did he seem to mind some trail construction that took place in his favorite foraging spots.

What if it isn’t there: You’re unlikely to be disappointed, as there are many other warblers that like similar habitats, including Ovenbird and Louisiana Waterthrush. Also be sure to take a moment to enjoy the chorus spring peepers, green frogs, tree frogs, and American toads) that will likely be vocalizing.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists Prothonotary Warblers as being of least concern, though wetland habitat is threatened by development and pollution throughout their range.

This week’s Connecticut Audubon Society Bird Finder was written by Michelle Eckman, director of education, and edited by Tom Andersen.

Photo by Curtzsi, Carolinabirds.org