The white-winged warbler, also called the white-winged ground-warbler or Hispaniolan highland-tanager, is a Vulnerable species of bird of the family Phaenicophilidae, the Hispaniolan tanagers. It is endemic to the island of Hispaniola which is shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Region
Hispaniola, Greater Antilles
Typical Environment
Endemic to montane regions of Hispaniola in both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. It inhabits moist broadleaf cloud forests, pine (Pinus occidentalis) forests, and mixed montane woodlands with dense understory. The species favors areas with abundant epiphytes, mossy branches, and forest edges or gaps. It is patchily distributed but can be locally fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
800–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the white-winged warbler is not a true wood-warbler; it belongs to the Hispaniolan tanagers (Phaenicophilidae). It forages nimbly in the understory and often joins mixed-species flocks with the green-tailed warbler and other montane insectivores. Habitat loss and degradation in Hispaniola’s highlands are its main threats, leading to a Vulnerable status.
Temperament
active and somewhat skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights through the understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Likely monogamous, with nests placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation in montane forest. Breeding occurs in the wet season when insect prey is abundant, and both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of seee and tsip notes delivered rapidly, often interspersed with short trills. Calls are sharp chips used to keep contact within mixed flocks and between mates, carrying well in dense foliage.
