The Colima Warbler is a rather obscure warbler of northern Mexico, and was unknown in the United States until 1928, when a bird was collected in the Big Bend area of southwestern Texas. Breeding has since occurred there, and the species can be rather common in Big Bend National Park during the summer months. The species is named for Colima, Mexico, an area on its wintering grounds where the species was first identified.
Habitat
Found in mixed forests (typically mixed oak and pine), typically with scattered open grassy patches. It is typically found at moderate to high elevations in habitat that is often difficult to get to.
Diet
Feeds mostly on insects and spiders.
Behavior
Tends to forage in undergrowth or relatively low in the forest canopy. It is more deliberate than most warblers.
Nesting
The nest is a cup of grasses, moss, bark, and leaves, placed on the ground, typically hidden amongst rocks on tallus or other rocky slope, or under a clump of vegetation. Both parents feed the young upon hatching.
Song
The song of a Colima Warbler is a harsh babbling trill, typically rising in pitch toward the end then dropping to a final lower note.
Migration
Short-distance migrant, summering in northern Mexico and extreme southern Texas, wintering in southwestern Mexico.
Similar Species
Virginia's Warbler , Nashville Warbler
Conservation Status
The Colima Warbler has been listed as "Near Threatened" by the IUCN . Populations are small and they breed in a relatively small geographic area, but the habitat they prefer is generally inaccessible and on land that's of little economic value to human beings. Therefore, while not a common species, extirpation due to habitat destruction or human activity may be unlikely.
Photo Information
Photo by National Park Service
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access the eBird species page for Colima Warbler
