Crescent-chested Warbler

The Crescent-chested Warbler is found in parts of Mexico and Central America, but was unknown in the United States until 1983, when a bird was confirmed at Fort Huachuca in southern Arizona.  Another was found in southern Arizona the next year, and sporadic reports have occasionally occurred since then.  A handful of records have now also been recorded near the Rio Grande in Texas.

Habitat: Found in oak/pine and mixed forests in the core of their range in Mexico and Central America.

Diet: Feeds on insects

Behavior: Despite nests being located on or near the ground, foraging is typically done by moving through the forest canopy, gleaning insects from foliage and branches.  They sometimes hang upside down while foraging, similar to the manner of a chickadee.

Nesting: The nest is a cup built either very low in vegetation or on the ground, usually placed on a steep slope.  The female lays between 2 and 4 eggs and she alone incubates them. Both parents help to feed the young once they hatch.

Song: Song is a repeated, buzzy k-k-k-k-k-k

Migration: Considered a permanent resident throughout their range, although movements to lower elevations in winter are noted for many birds in montane environments.

Interactive eBird map: Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Crescent-chested Warbler sightings

Similar Species: Northern Parula, Tropical Parula

Conservation Status: Populations are seemingly declining, but the overall population is still strong.  The IUCN lists the Crescent-chested Warbler as a species of "Least Concern".

Further Information: 1) BirdLife International - Crescent-chested Warbler

2) WhatBird - Crescent-chested Warbler

3) Cornell's NeoTropical Birds - Crescent-chested Warbler

Photo Information: Photo by Jerry Oldenettel - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License

 

Click below for a higher-resolution map

South Dakota Status: Non-resident in South Dakota

Additional Tropical Parula Photos (coming soon!!)