The golden-crowned warbler is a small insectivorous bird in the New World warbler family Parulidae. It has a large geographic range that extends from northeastern Mexico south to northern Argentina. The white-bellied warbler was formerly treated as a separate species but is now considered to be conspecific with the golden-crowned warbler.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Found from northeastern Mexico through Central America and much of northern and central South America to northern Argentina and Uruguay. It occupies lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, plantations, and second growth with dense understory. Often seen along streams, in thickets, and in bamboo or vine tangles. It tolerates moderate habitat disturbance better than many forest specialists, provided dense cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This active understory warbler ranges from northeastern Mexico to northern Argentina and has many regional subspecies. The white-bellied warbler was formerly considered separate but is now treated as conspecific with the golden-crowned warbler. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks and often flicks its tail while foraging. Its adaptability to forest edges and second growth helps it persist in moderately disturbed habitats.
Temperament
active and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are typically domed or well-concealed cups placed on or near the ground, often in banks or root tangles. Both adults attend the young, moving stealthily through dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, bright series of thin, high-pitched notes and trills, often delivered from low perches inside dense vegetation. Call notes are sharp chips or tsips used to keep contact while foraging.
