Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

A warbler that behaves like a nuthatch, the Black-and-White Warbler feeds by crawling up and down tree trunks and branches, looking in crevices for insects.  They are often found quite low in forest and woodland edges, a habit that makes them quite conspicuous, especially considering their bold black-and-white plumage and unique behavior.  A common migrant in South Dakota, Black-and White Warblers are among the earliest spring warblers. 

Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands.

Diet: Feeds almost exclusively on insects and spiders.

Behavior: Does most of its foraging by clambering along tree branches and tree trunks in search of insects.  Will also occasionally fly out from a perch to catch flying insects in mid-air.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Black-and-White Warbler song

Migration: Summers in much of the eastern U.S., southern Canada, and locally elsewhere.  Winters along the Gulf Coast and points south.

Similar Species: Blackpoll Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler

Conservation Status: Widespread and common, but there is some evidence of local declines.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Black-and-White Warbler

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Black-and-white Warbler"

3) eNature.com: Black-and-White Warbler

Photo Information: September 3rd, 2007 - Minnehaha County, South Dakota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Black-and-white Warbler photos.