Male and female plumage similar. Overall a very plain, non-descript bird. The Rufous on the crown of the head, and on the rump is not always easily seen. However, if you see these two diagnostic field markings you can be assured that you have identified this species correctly.

Riparian/Deciduous

Common

This small songbird is a cavity nester. It arrives early in the spring and prefers old-growth cottonwood trees, and willow trees where it actively gleans in the foliage for insects. In spring the males sing incessantly which makes finding them easier particularly if the deciduous trees have already leaved out.

Insects

Other warbler species

Watson Woods, Granite Creek Park, Willow Lake Cottonwood Peninsula