Louisiana Waterthrush (Parkesia motacilla)

The Louisiana Waterthrush is the less widespread and common of the two Waterthrushes (the Northern Waterthrush being the other). They have a characteristic rear bobbing action as they forage in and around water They usually flush into the surrounding forest when alarmed, with a sharp call note as they go.

Habitat

Nearly always found in and around aquatic habitats, primarily in forested environments. This includes bottomland swamps and lagoons, riparian areas, and hilly brooks and streams. In winter in the tropics, they also prefer forested areas in and around water, even sometimes using coastal mangrove swamps.

Diet

Feeds on both aquatic and terrestrial insects, as well as small crustaceans and mollusks, tiny fish, and occasionally seeds.

Behavior

Usually forages by walking along the ground, often along the edge of water or even in it, as they turn over stones and vegetation in search of food. They will also catch flying insects in midair.

Breeding Map

Non-breeder in South Dakota.

Song

Loud clear song, beginning with 3 or 4 clear whistles, followed by a short rapid medley of jumbled notes. Click here to listen to the Louisiana Waterthrush's song. Also, click to listen to the Louisiana Waterthrush's call.

Migration

Summers throughout most of the Southeastern U.S. south of the Great Lakes and New England. Winters in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Interactive eBird Map

Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Lousiana Waterthrush sightings

Similar Species

Northern Waterthrush, Ovenbird

Status

Current populations are probably stable, but overall, numbers are much lower than historical levels due to habitat loss in the Southeastern United States.

Photo Information

Photo courtesy of Matt Weitzel (click here for original presentation on Flickr).