The Connecticut warbler is a small songbird of the New World warbler family.
Region
Boreal North America and western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Breeds in boggy and open boreal forests with tamarack, black spruce, jack pine, and aspen across central Canada and into the upper Great Lakes region of the United States. Prefers areas with dense ground cover, sphagnum bog margins, and young regenerating stands. During migration it uses shrubby edges, thickets, and forest understory, often near water. In winter it occupies lowland forest, riverine edges, and semi-open secondary growth in the western Amazon Basin.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the Connecticut warbler rarely occurs in Connecticut and was named after an early specimen found there. It is a secretive ground-foraging warbler that breeds in the boreal zone of central North America and winters in South America. Its bold white eye-ring and grayish hood make it distinctive among similar warblers. Because it skulks in dense understory, it is far more often heard than seen.
Male (atop) and female Connecticut warbler. Note how dull the female is in contrast to the male.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in dispersed territories; pairs are typically monogamous during the breeding season. Nests are placed on or near the ground, well concealed in dense vegetation. The female incubates while the male sings from low to mid-level perches and helps defend the territory.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of repeated phrases delivered at a deliberate pace, carrying well through the understory. Calls include sharp chips and soft tinks given from low cover.
