Even though it doesn’t officially begin until Saturday, let me be the first to wish you a Happy International Migratory Bird Day! On account of this glorious occasion, coupled with Danielle and my trip to Cape May, New Jersey last week (arguably the birdiest spot in the country) what better bird to feature than the Cape May Warbler!
- Did you know that the adult male Cape May Warbler retains his plumage throughout the year??
Common Name: Cape May Warbler
Latin Name: Setophaga tigrina
Range: Breeds in southern Canada, the northeastern U.S., and the Great Lakes region. Winters in the Caribbean.
Habitat: Found in coniferous and spruce forests and gardens.
Diet: Primarily insects, especially budworms, during breeding season. Nectar and insects during migration.
Conservation Status: Least Concern
- The Cape May Warbler, Setophaga tigrina
The “Cape May” Warbler is a bit of a misnomer. Though the species occurs in the area of Cape May, NJ, it was only named so because that is where it was first identified by Alexander Wilson in 1811. In fact, the species can be widely found throughout Cananda and the East Coast.
Happy Birding!
Michelle
