Orange-crowned Warbler

photo by Phil Swanson

Vermivora celata
L 5″ (13 cm).

Song or calls:
Listen (NGPC audio)

Song is high-pitched staccato trill. Call note is sharp “chip.” 

Description: Sexes similar. Olive green above; paler below; yellow undertail coverts; faint streaking on sides of breast; slightly downcurved bill; faint whitish eyebrow; and orange crown feathers, which usually remain hidden. No eye-ring or wing bars.

orange crowned warbler
Habitat: Deciduous forests, woodlands, and brushy thickets. Also forage in stands of tall sunflowers, ragweeds, and shrubs, often fairly close to the ground.

Where in Nebraska: Common spring and fall migrant across the state.

Field Notes: Orange-crowned Warblers only display their crown during courtship or when alarmed.

Fun Facts: The Orange-crowned Warbler is divided into four sub-species that vary in plummage, size, color, and molt patterns.

female Orange-crowned Warbler - photo by Phil Swanson female Orange-crowned Warbler - photo by Phil Swanson
(click image for larger view)