Blackburnian Warbler vs Blackpoll Warbler

In short

The Blackburnian Warbler and Blackpoll Warbler can be distinguished by their plumage and vocalizations. The Blackburnian Warbler is known for its striking orange throat, while the Blackpoll Warbler has a more subdued appearance with a distinctive high-pitched song.

Identification tips

1. Look for the orange throat of the Blackburnian Warbler, which is a key distinguishing feature. 2. Note the black cap and white face of the Blackpoll Warbler during breeding season. 3. Listen for the Blackburnian Warbler's ascending song versus the Blackpoll Warbler's high-pitched, thin song. 4. Observe the habitat: Blackburnian Warblers are often in hemlock forests, while Blackpoll Warblers are in northern coniferous forests.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small warblers.

Plumage

The Blackburnian Warbler features a vibrant orange throat and face with black streaks on its back and wings. In contrast, the Blackpoll Warbler has a more muted appearance with a white face and a black cap during the breeding season, and its underparts are streaked with black.

Behaviour

Both species are active foragers, often seen gleaning insects from foliage. The Blackburnian Warbler tends to forage higher in the canopy, while the Blackpoll Warbler may be seen at various levels.

Habitat

The Blackburnian Warbler prefers coniferous and mixed forests, especially hemlock, while the Blackpoll Warbler breeds in northern coniferous forests and migrates over long distances to South America.

Voice

The Blackburnian Warbler's song is a high-pitched series of notes that ascend in pitch, while the Blackpoll Warbler's song is a very high, thin series of 'see-see-see' notes.