Black-and-white Warbler
Mniotilta varia
Unlike other warblers, this species has an extra-long hind toe and claw that allows it to crawl up and down tree trunks similar to a nuthatch.
- Scientific name
- Mniotilta varia
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Chordata › Aves › Passeriformes › Parulidae › Mniotilta
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- forest
- Habitat
- Deciduous and mixed forests with a preference for mature trees and dense undergrowth.
- Diet
- Insects, spiders, and larvae gleaned from tree bark and crevices.
- Range
- North America, Central America, Northern South America, Caribbean
- Size
- 11-13 cm length, 18-22 cm wingspan
- Lifespan
- 2-5 years
- Active
- diurnal
- Threats
- Habitat fragmentation, window collisions during migration, and pesticide use reducing insect populations.
- Safe to approach?
- Harmless. Observe from a distance with binoculars to avoid disturbing nesting or foraging. If an injured bird is found, contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator and do not attempt to keep it as a pet.
The black-and-white warbler ( Mniotilta varia ) is a species of New World warbler, and the only member of its genus, Mniotilta .
Photo: lwolfartist, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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