Townsend's Warbler
Dendroica townsendi
Description
Distinguishing features in all plumages include a yellow breast and dark streaking on the back. Males have black cheeks surrounded by yellow, whereas females have dark olive cheeks.
Habitat
Most common in mature coniferous forest with moderate undergrowth, often near water.
Song
A raspy "swee swee swee swee swee-oo."
Similar Species
Similar to the Black-throated Green Warbler but their ranges do not overlap.
Comments
Both sexes
of the Townsend's Warblers are strongly territorial. Chases between males
may last for hours.
The Townsend's Warbler is included in what is called the virens
superspecies, which also includes the Black-throated Green Warbler and
the Hermit Warbler. In the United States, the Townsend's frequently hybridizes
with the Hermit Warbler.
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