The magnolia warbler is a member of the wood warbler family Parulidae.
Region
North America, Central America, and the Caribbean
Typical Environment
Breeds widely across Canada and the northeastern and north-central United States, favoring young spruce-fir and other dense coniferous habitats. During migration it passes through eastern and central North America, often frequenting forest edges and parks. In winter it occupies low to mid-elevation forests and second-growth from southern Mexico through Central America and on Caribbean islands. It adapts well to mixed-species flocks in wintering areas and can use shaded agroforestry like coffee plantations.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The magnolia warbler is a small, striking wood-warbler of the family Parulidae. It was named by Alexander Wilson after finding it in a magnolia tree in Mississippi during migration. Males in breeding plumage show a bold black 'necklace' of streaks across a bright yellow breast, making it one of the easier warblers to identify. It breeds in dense young conifer stands and winters in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
First-year male magnolia warbler
John James Audubon's Black & Yellow Warbler (magnolia warbler), Plate 123 from The Birds of America
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
On the breeding grounds it is territorial, with males singing persistently from low to mid-level perches in dense conifers. The species forms mixed-species foraging flocks during migration and on wintering grounds. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in conifers; clutches typically contain 3–5 eggs, and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
The male’s song is a clear, sweet series of buzzy notes that often rises or ends with a sharper flourish. Calls include a thin 'tsip' given during foraging or migration. Song types vary, with some versions more emphatic on the final notes.
Plumage
Breeding males have a slate-gray head, bold black mask, white eyebrow, black upperparts with white wing patch, and bright yellow underparts with a distinct black 'necklace' of streaks. Females and nonbreeding birds are duller olive-gray above with blurry flank streaks and a weak facial mask. The tail shows prominent white patches at the base visible from below. Overall, crisp contrast and streaked underparts are key features.
Diet
Primarily consumes insects and spiders, especially caterpillars gleaned from foliage. It also takes small flies, beetles, and other arthropods by hover-gleaning and short sallies. In winter it may supplement with small berries or nectar when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense low to mid-level foliage of young conifers and mixed woods, frequently working the outer branch tips. In winter and migration it uses forest edges, second-growth thickets, and shaded agroforestry habitats.
