photo by Phil Swanson

Helmitheros vermivorus
L 5 1/4″ (13 cm).

Song or calls:
“Zeep-zeep.” Song is series of sharp, dry “chip” notes, faster than Chipping Sparrow.

Description: Sexes similar. Bold, dark stripes on buffy-orange head; underparts mostly buffy-orange; brownish-olive upperparts; long, spike-like bill; no wing bars.

Behavior: Forages on the ground in shady undergrowth, and is easily overlooked.

Habitat: Dense river-bottom woodlands or second-growth medium-sized woods on hillsides with a shrubby undercover.

Where in Nebraska: Casual spring migrant and summer visitor in eastern Nebraska. Accidental in fall and in western Nebraska.

Fun Facts: Young Worm-eating Warblers typically leave their nest 8-10 days after hatching!

 
(click image for larger view)