Species · GBIF taxon 2489613
Black-and-white Warbler
Mniotilta variaAlso known as Black-and-white Creeper
Black-and-white Warblers act more like nuthatches than typical warblers, creeping deliberately along tree trunks and major limbs to probe bark crevices for hidden insects. Their bold, zebra-striped plumage provides surprisingly effective camouflage against the dappled light of deciduous forests. During spring migration, males sing a high-pitched, rhythmic song resembling a squeaky wheelbarrow wheel.
MigratoryInsectivorousWoodland
- diet
- Insects, spiders, caterpillars, and insect eggs
- family
- Parulidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, window collisions, and pesticides
- life Span
- Up to 11 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Listen for the song: Listen for a high-pitched, squeaky song that sounds like a wet rag rubbing on glass.
- Scan tree trunks: Look for them creeping along large branches and trunks rather than flitting in the outer foliage.