Northern Waterthrush -- South Dakota Birds

Northern Waterthrush

Seiurus noveboracensis

A shy bird normally found in thickets around streams and ponds, the Northern Waterthrush can often be seen bobbing its hindquarters up and down as it searches for food.  One of the earliest fall migrants, they start their southward movements as early as the middle of July.

Habitat: Can appear in nearly any habitat during migration through the state, but is most often found in woods and thickets around water bodies.  Generally breeds in forested wetlands (out-of-state).

Diet: Primarily insects.  Will also eat crustaceans, mollusks, slugs, and small fish.

Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota.

Song: Northern Waterthrush song, also Northern Waterthrush call

Migrations: Summers throughout Canada and the northern and northeastern United States. Winters in Florida, Mexico, and points south.

Similar Species: Louisiana Waterthrush, Ovenbird

Status: Numbers generally stable.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Northern Waterthrush

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Northern Waterthrush"

3) E-nature.com: Northern Waterthrush

Photo Information: Spring 2002 -- Between Sioux Falls and Brandon -- James Vogelmann

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This page was last edited on 02/03/08