Palm Warbler

Setophaga palmarum

Unlike most warblers that stay high in the canopy, the Palm Warbler is a ground-dweller known for its nearly constant tail-bobbing.

Scientific name: Setophaga palmarum
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Aves › Passeriformes › Parulidae › Setophaga
IUCN Red List status: Least Concern
Population trend: stable
Biome: wetland
Habitat: Boreal bogs and muskeg during breeding; open scrub, palm groves, and coastal brush during winter.
Diet: Primarily insectivorous (beetles, flies, and caterpillars), supplemented by seeds and berries in winter.
Range: Canada, Northern United States, Southeastern United States, Caribbean, Central America
Size: 12-15 cm length; 7-13 g weight
Lifespan: 6-7 years
Active: diurnal
Threats: Climate change affecting boreal breeding grounds, window strikes during migration, and habitat loss in wintering regions.
Safe to approach?: Harmless. These birds are active and approachable, but maintain a respectful distance of at least 15 feet to observe their natural foraging behavior. Do not attempt to catch or handle; if an injured bird is found, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator and use gloves if transport is necessary.

The palm warbler ( Setophaga palmarum ) is a small songbird of the New World warbler family.

Photo: William H. Majoros, CC-BY-SA, via iNaturalist