Swainson's warbler is a small species of New World warbler. It is monotypic, the only member of the genus Limnothlypis. Swainson's warbler was named after William Swainson, an English ornithologist.
Region
Southeastern United States and Caribbean Basin
Typical Environment
Breeds locally from the Gulf Coastal Plain and Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley north and east into the southeastern U.S., and in shady Appalachian ravines with dense understory. Wintering occurs mainly on Caribbean islands (notably Cuba and Jamaica) and in the western Caribbean lowlands, including parts of the Yucatán Peninsula and northern Central America. Prefers dense, shaded habitats with thick leaf litter and a well-developed understory. Key breeding habitats include canebrakes, baldcypress–tupelo swamps, and bottomland hardwood forests; in mountains it uses rhododendron and laurel thickets. On the wintering grounds it occupies humid broadleaf forests, thickets, and dense second growth.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Swainson's warbler is a secretive ground-foraging New World warbler and the sole member of its genus, Limnothlypis. It breeds in dense canebrakes and tangled understory of bottomland hardwoods and mountain ravines. Despite its drab appearance, its song is loud and far-carrying, often the best way to detect it. Conservation efforts often focus on restoring native switchcane (Arundinaria) and maintaining understory structure.
South Padre Island - Texas
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through understory
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, maintaining well-defined territories in dense cover. Nests are open cups placed low in cane, vines, or shrubs, often 0.5–1.5 m above ground. Pairs are monogamous within a season and both sexes participate in territory defense; the female primarily builds the nest and incubates.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of clear, whistled notes, often rising and then falling, that carries far through swampy forests. Calls include sharp chips and tsk notes given from concealed perches when agitated.
