photo by Phil Swanson

Seiurus aurocapillus
L 6″ (15 cm).

Song or calls:
Song is loud “teacher teacher teacher,”

Description: Sexes similar. Brownish-olive above; white below with bold streaks of dark spots; russet crown bordered by dark stripes; bold white eye ring; and pinkish legs. Lacks eye stripe.

Behavior: Usually seen on the ground; walks, with tail cocked, rather than hops.

Habitat: Well-drained bottomland deciduous forests, and mature shady upland forests.

Where in Nebraska: Uncommon to common spring and fall migrant statewide. Locally common summer resident in Missouri’s forested valley, Niobrara Valley west to Cherry County, and Pine Ridge area.

Fun Facts: The Ovenbird is named for the nest it builds, which is like a Dutch oven, enclosed in vegetation on top.

 
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