Species · GBIF taxon 2489871
Prothonotary Warbler
Protonotaria citreaAlso known as Golden Swamp Warbler, Swamp Warbler
Prothonotary Warblers illuminate dark, flooded bottomland forests with their brilliant, golden-yellow plumage. Uniquely among eastern warblers, these birds nest in tree cavities, often utilizing abandoned downy woodpecker holes just above standing water. Their loud, ringing song echoes through wooded swamps during the spring breeding season.
MigratoryCavity-nestingVibrant
- diet
- Insects, spiders, and occasionally snails or seeds
- family
- Parulidae
- threats
- Wetland deforestation, loss of dead standing trees, and nest parasitism
- life Span
- 5 to 8 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Populations are declining due to the loss of forested wetlands and competition for scarce nesting cavities.
Maintain a respectful distance from nest cavities and use binoculars or zoom lenses to observe breeding behavior.- Listen for Songs: Locate them by listening for their loud, metallic, single-pitch whistling song in swampy areas.
- Provide Nest Boxes: Install specialized wooden nest boxes over water to support local breeding pairs.
- Keep Distance: Avoid approaching active nest cavities closely to prevent attracting predators like raccoons.