Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Black-throated Gray Warbler

Scientific name: Setophaga nigrescens


Black-throated Gray Warbler

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: PARULIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 5 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04–30.06

Gestation / Incubation: 12–13 jours

Births: 01.05–15.07


Habitat:
Coniferous forests, mixed forests, shrublands

Description:
The Black-throated Gray Warbler, Setophaga nigrescens, is a small songbird in the Parulidae family. It is easily identified by its black head contrasting with white cheeks and a black throat. Its back is gray with black streaks, and its wings have two distinct white bars. This passerine measures about 12 cm in length and weighs between 8 and 10 grams. It primarily inhabits coniferous and mixed forests, but can also be found in shrublands and oak forests. A migratory bird, it breeds in the western United States and winters in the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Its song is a high-pitched, rapid trill, often heard in spring.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Black-throated Gray Warbler, choose sunny mornings when the bird is most active. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for areas where trees are sparse for a clear view. Be patient and discreet, as this bird can be suspicious. Listen for its distinctive song to locate its position. Once spotted, wait for it to perch on a well-lit branch to get the best possible shot.

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